A possible Ruddy Duck was reported on Swan Lake. I was able to find and photograph it, but hope to get better pictures tomorrow. Clear and chilly weather resulted in a reasonably colorful sunset shortly before 4pm this afternoon.
Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) observed on Swan Lake.
Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) observed on Swan Lake.
Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) observed on Swan Lake with Mallards.
Sunset from Sandy Beach.
Sunset from Sandy Beach.
Are you thinking it’s a winter plumage immature female ruddy? It’s a interesting bird, no doubt. The face patch looks a bit off to me, at least compared with the winter ruddys I see here in PA. I don’t suppose there’s another option, though.
Carolyn H.
I don’t have any prior experience with Ruddy Duck, but based on what the bird looked like, and what was shown in Sibley’s, I figured this was most likely a juvenile – but he doesn’t differentiate male and female juveniles, so I wouldn’t guess gender. Other people with some Ruddy Duck experience have suggested it looks like a female.