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Ducks at a Distance

Canvasback

Reading edition

Length—22 in. Weight—3 lbs.

Hen Eclipse Drake

Hen and Eclipse Drake
Hen and Eclipse Drake

Normally late to start south, canvasbacks migrate in lines and irregular V's.

In feeding areas, compact flocks fly in indefinite formations. Their wingbeat is rapid and noisy; their speed is the swiftest of all our ducks.

Hen Drake

Hen and Drake Wing
Hen and Drake Wing

Drake

Drake
Drake

Drake Hen

Drake and Hen
Drake and Hen

Drake Hen

Drake and Hen
Drake and Hen

Feeding behavior is highly variable. In some areas they feed at night and spend the day rafted up in open waters; in other areas they feed inshore mornings and evenings.

On the water, body size and head shape distinguish them from scaups and redheads.

Drakes croak, peep, and growl; hens have a mallard-like quack.

Typical Flock Pattern

Typical Flock Pattern
Typical Flock Pattern
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