Andean Duck

Overview

The Andean duck (Oxyura ferruginea) is a small stiff-tailed duck native to the Andean Mountains of South America. It was historically considered a subspecies of the ruddy duck, though some authorities still regard it as conspecific. The species is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Small, compact body with slightly peaked heads and short, thick necks.
• Stout, scoop-shaped bills and long, stiff tails often held cocked upward.
• Summer plumage features rich chestnut bodies and bright blue bills; winter plumage is dull gray-brown above and paler below with dull gray bills.
• Females and first-year males are brownish with a blurry stripe across the pale cheek patch, and the species is distinguishable from the ruddy duck by its all-black face and larger size.

Habitat

Native to the Andean Mountains of South America, the species breeds in marshy lakes and ponds. Nests are constructed from grass and located in tall, dense marsh vegetation near water to provide protection from predators.

Diet

These birds dive and swim underwater to forage for food. Their diet primarily consists of the seeds and roots of aquatic plants, as well as aquatic insects and crustaceans.

Did you know?

While the species name refers to its location, some taxonomic authorities, including the American Ornithological Society, still consider the Andean duck to be conspecific with the ruddy duck rather than a separate species.