Oxyura jamaicensis

The Ruddy Duck is one of five species of stiff-tailed duck worldwide (so called for their stout, rigid tails) and the only one that breeds in North America. The four other species are found in South America, Australia, Europe, and Africa. New Zealand also once had its own stiff-tailed duck species, though it has since become extinct, possibly from Maori overhunting hundreds of years ago.

The Ruddy Duck male turns into a real stunner in the breeding season, taking on a rich chestnut body color and a bright blue bill. This one from the Arcata Marsh has only partially transitioned into his fancy clothes.

Day 4 of Godwit Days. I attended bird banding and warbler identification workshops today, both of which were very fulfilling experiences.