- Oxyura jamaicensis
Identification
A small diving duck. Compact body with large head and stiff tale give it a very distinctive shape.
- Striking blue bill
- White cheeks
- Dark brown head
- Red/brown body
- Dull brown
- Bold, pale cheek patches
Distribution
Native of North America, introduced to the UK and Europe, where hybridisation with white-headed duck is causing some concern.
Taxonomy
Habitat
Marshes, ponds and lakes