General Description: Ruddy Ducks (Oxyura jamaicensis) are small, sexually dimorphic pond ducks. Both genders have stiff tails that they hold upright unless they are trying to hide. In breeding season, males are reddish-brown (chestnut) with a dark head and neck, white face patch, and blue bill. Outside the breeding season, the males are more brown and they loose the blue on the bill. Females are mottled brown overall, with a white face patch and dark stripe across the cheek.

Favored Habitat: Ponds, marshes, and lakes deep enough for diving.

Where to Find: Neighborhood ponds, parks (e.g., Lorenzi Park and Sunset Park), and the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve. To find them in more natural habitat, visit the Pahranagat Valley or Overton Wildlife Management Area.