Ruddy
Reading edition
Length—15½ in. Weight—1-1/3 lbs.
Winter Drake Hen
The ruddy duck often dives or swims away from danger rather than flying. When flying, their small wings stroke so fast they resemble bumblebees.
Sexes Similar
Summer Drake
Drake Hen
Drake Hen
They are early to mid-fall migrants.
Drakes often cock their tails upright at an angle, the only species to habitually do so.
Both hens and drakes are silent in the fall.
Typical Flock Pattern
