- Anas americana
Identification
45-56cm. Male: pink flanks and breast back, black rear end, white speculum, greyish head, green eye patch and a whitish crown stripe. Female - light brown.
Distribution
Alaska south throughout most of Canada and western United States.
Taxonomy
Sometimes placed in the genus Mareca.
This is a monotypic species.
Habitat
Forages in marshes, fields, and shallow waters.
Behaviour
The diet includes plant food which is obtained by dabbling.
It nests on the ground, near water and under cover; 6-12 creamy white eggs are laid.
Vocalisation
The male has a clear whistle in three syllables: whoee-whoe-whoe, whereas the female has a low growl qua-ack.
