In “California Ducks: A Guide to 30 Species,” readers will find a comprehensive resource that introduces them to the diverse world of ducks found throughout California. This handy guide includes valuable information such as identification tips, calls, and a season guide for each of the 30 species. Exploring the fascinating subfamilies of ducks and their omnivorous diets, readers will discover that there are three main types of ducks: dabbling ducks, diving ducks, and sea ducks. With the help of detailed descriptions of beak shape, white patches, calls, heads, and tails, readers can confidently identify the ducks they encounter. Whether spotted year-round or during the winter months, the varied species of dabbling, diving, and sea ducks in California offer an array of captivating characteristics and behaviors. From the iconic Mallard and Northern Shoveler to the unique Ruddy Duck and Surf Scoter, this guide is filled with fun facts and intriguing details about each species’ nesting habits and breeding behaviors.

Dabbling Ducks

Mallard

The Mallard is one of the most recognized and common duck species in California. With its vibrant green head, yellow bill, and brownish body, it is easy to spot in ponds, lakes, and wetlands. Mallards are dabbling ducks, which means they feed primarily by tipping their bodies forward to reach vegetation and insects in shallow water. They are highly adaptable and can be found in a wide range of habitats, from urban parks to remote marshes.

Northern Shoveler

The Northern Shoveler is known for its unique, shovel-shaped bill, which it uses to sift through the water and mud for food. These ducks are primarily herbivores, feeding on aquatic vegetation and invertebrates. The males have striking plumage, with a glossy green head, white breast, and chestnut sides. Females have a more subdued appearance, with mottled brown feathers. They are often found in shallow wetlands and can be identified by their distinctive bill shape.

American Wigeon

The American Wigeon is a medium-sized dabbling duck with a distinctive white patch on its forehead. The males have a beautiful cream-colored crown and a green band that extends from the eye to the back of the head. Females have a more beige coloration with a grayish-brown head. American Wigeons are often found in marshes, ponds, and estuaries, where they feed on grasses, aquatic plants, and invertebrates.

Gadwall

Gadwalls are small dabbling ducks with mottled gray-brown plumage. They have a black bill, which is broader at the base and tapers towards the tip. The males have a white speculum on their wings, while the females have a less pronounced one. Gadwalls are often found in freshwater ponds and marshes, where they feed on aquatic plants, seeds, and invertebrates. They are known for their quiet nature and are often overlooked due to their subtle coloring.

Green-winged Teal

The Green-winged Teal is the smallest dabbling duck in North America, but it doesn’t lack in beauty. The males have a stunning mix of chestnut, black, and iridescent green on their head and body, along with a vibrant green speculum on their wings. The females are mottled brown with a subtle green speculum. These ducks can be found in shallow freshwater habitats, where they feed on seeds, insects, and vegetation. Their small size and swift flight make them agile in their search for food.

Cinnamon Teal

Cinnamon Teals are striking ducks with vibrant cinnamon-colored plumage and bright red eyes. The males have a red head and neck, while the females have a mottled brown appearance. These ducks prefer freshwater marshes, ponds, and lakes, where they feed on aquatic vegetation, seeds, and invertebrates. Cinnamon Teals are known for their distinctive calls, which include a series of whistles and quacks. They are a treat to observe and photograph due to their striking colors.

Blue-winged Teal

Blue-winged Teals are small dabbling ducks with a unique coloration pattern. The males have a grayish-blue head with a distinctive white crescent on the face. Their wings have a vibrant blue patch, which gives them their name. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale blue speculum on their wings. Blue-winged Teals are found in freshwater habitats, where they feed on aquatic vegetation, seeds, and invertebrates. They are highly migratory and can be seen in large flocks during the migration season.

Northern Pintail

The Northern Pintail is a sleek and graceful duck with a long, slender neck and a pointed tail. The males have a chocolate-brown head, white breast, and a prominent white stripe on their neck. The females have a mottled brown appearance with a more subdued coloration. Northern Pintails prefer shallow wetlands, where they feed on seeds, insects, and aquatic plants. They are known for their elegant flight and courtship displays, which involve complex aerial maneuvers.

Wood Duck

Wood Ducks are known for their stunning colors and distinctive patterns. The males have a glossy green head, a chestnut breast, and intricate white and black markings on their body. The females have a duller appearance, with a gray-brown head and mottled brown body. These ducks prefer woodland areas near ponds, lakes, and rivers, where they feed on acorns, seeds, insects, and aquatic plants. Wood Ducks are unique among ducks, as they have strong claws that allow them to perch on tree branches.

Canvasback

Canvasbacks are large diving ducks known for their striking appearance. The males have a reddish-brown head, a black chest, and a pale gray body. Their long, sloping bill is a distinctive feature. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body. Canvasbacks are found in lakes, rivers, and coastal areas, where they dive underwater to feed on aquatic plants, insects, and small invertebrates. They are known for their fast flight and agile diving abilities.

Diving Ducks

Ruddy Duck

Ruddy Ducks are small diving ducks with a compact body and a distinctive blue bill. The males have a vibrant chestnut body and a blue bill with a white tip. During breeding season, they develop bright blue bills and an unusual bright blue bill that is inflated like a balloon as part of their courtship display. Females have a more subdued appearance, with a mottled brown body and a grayish bill. Ruddy Ducks prefer freshwater habitats with emergent vegetation, where they dive to find invertebrates, seeds, and aquatic plants.

Bufflehead

Buffleheads are charming little ducks with a striking black and white coloration. The males have a glossy black head with a large white patch, while the females have a brownish head with a smaller white patch. These ducks can be found in both freshwater and saltwater habitats, where they dive to find small fish, invertebrates, and aquatic plants. They are agile swimmers and can dive to significant depths in search of food. Buffleheads are known for their fast and direct flight.

Ring-necked Duck

Ring-necked Ducks are medium-sized diving ducks with a striking appearance. The males have a black head, a white ring around their bill, and a gray body with black and white markings. The females have a brownish head and a mottled brown body. These ducks prefer freshwater habitats with dense vegetation, where they dive to find invertebrates, seeds, and aquatic plants. Ring-necked Ducks are known for their vocalizations, which include a variety of quacks and whistles.

Lesser Scaup

Lesser Scaups are diving ducks with a sleek and compact body. The males have a black head with a purplish sheen, a black chest, and a gray body. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body. Lesser Scaups can be found in both freshwater and saltwater habitats, where they dive to find invertebrates, seeds, and aquatic plants. They are known for their swift and direct flight, as well as their ability to swim and dive underwater for extended periods.

Redhead

Redheads are medium-sized diving ducks with a distinctive reddish head and neck. The males have a bright red head, a black chest, and a gray body. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body. These ducks prefer freshwater habitats, such as ponds and lakes, where they dive to find invertebrates, seeds, and aquatic plants. Redheads are known for their elaborate courtship displays, which involve males chasing females in tight circles while rapidly pumping their heads.

Canvasback

Canvasbacks are large diving ducks known for their striking appearance. The males have a reddish-brown head, a black chest, and a pale gray body. Their long, sloping bill is a distinctive feature. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body. Canvasbacks are found in lakes, rivers, and coastal areas, where they dive underwater to feed on aquatic plants, insects, and small invertebrates. They are known for their fast flight and agile diving abilities.

Greater Scaup

Greater Scaups are larger diving ducks with a bold black and white coloration. The males have a glossy greenish-black head, a black chest, and a pale gray body. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body. Greater Scaups can be found in a variety of habitats, including both freshwater and saltwater environments. They dive to find invertebrates, seeds, and aquatic plants. Greater Scaups are known for their large flocks and their synchronized swimming and diving behaviors.

Goldeneye

Goldeneyes are diving ducks known for their striking appearance and distinctive bright yellow eyes. The males have a black head with a round white patch, a black chest, and a white body. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body. Goldeneyes prefer freshwater habitats, such as lakes and rivers, where they dive to find small fish, invertebrates, and aquatic plants. They are known for their rapid wingbeats, which produce a distinctive whistling sound.

Common Merganser

Common Mergansers are large diving ducks with a slender body and a long, serrated bill. The males have a dark green head, a white chest, and a black body with white markings. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a gray body. These ducks can be found in lakes and rivers, where they dive to catch fish, invertebrates, and small amphibians. Common Mergansers are known for their skilled swimming and diving abilities, as well as their ability to swim long distances underwater.

Hooded Merganser

Hooded Mergansers are distinctive ducks with a unique appearance. The males have a large white crest on their head, which they can raise or lower depending on their mood. They also have a black and white striped body and a yellow eye. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body and a smaller crest. These ducks prefer wooded areas near rivers, lakes, and marshes, where they dive to find fish, invertebrates, and aquatic plants. Hooded Mergansers are known for their elaborate courtship displays, which involve males raising their crests and engaging in synchronized head bobbing and swimming.

Sea Ducks

Surf Scoter

Surf Scoters are large sea ducks with a bold black and white coloration. The males have a black body with a large white patch on their forehead and a bright orange bill. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body and a smaller white patch on their forehead. Surf Scoters can be found along the coastlines and in nearshore waters, where they dive to find marine invertebrates, crustaceans, and small fish. They are known for their strong wingbeats and their ability to ride the waves.

White-winged Scoter

White-winged Scoters are large sea ducks with a striking appearance. The males have a black body, a white patch on their forehead, and a bright orange bill with a distinctive white mark at the base. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body and a smaller white patch on their forehead. These ducks prefer open coastal waters and can often be seen diving for invertebrates, mollusks, and small fish. White-winged Scoters are known for their rapid and direct flight.

Black Scoter

Black Scoters are sea ducks with a predominantly dark plumage. The males have a black body, a bright yellow knob on their bill, and a distinctive orange eye. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body. Black Scoters can be found in coastal waters and can often be seen diving for invertebrates, crustaceans, and small fish. They are known for their strong flight and their ability to dive to significant depths in search of food.

Harlequin Duck

Harlequin Ducks are striking sea ducks with a unique and colorful appearance. The males have a dark blue head, a white patch on their face, and a chestnut body with a distinct pattern of white, blue, and black markings. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body and a smaller version of the male’s pattern. Harlequin Ducks prefer fast-moving streams and rocky coastlines, where they dive to find invertebrates, crustaceans, and small fish. They are known for their strong swimming and diving abilities, as well as their agility in turbulent waters.

Long-tailed Duck

Long-tailed Ducks, also known as Oldsquaws, are sea ducks with a distinctive appearance. The males have a dark head with a white patch, a brown body, and a long, elegant tail. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body and a smaller version of the male’s tail. Long-tailed Ducks can be found in coastal waters, where they dive to find invertebrates, crustaceans, and small fish. They are known for their long-distance migration and their ability to dive to significant depths in search of food.

Common Eider

Common Eiders are large sea ducks with a striking appearance and unique, wedge-shaped bills. The males have a white body, a black back, and a green nape on their head. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body and a lighter coloration on their breast. Common Eiders prefer coastal waters and can often be seen diving for mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish. They are known for their rapid and direct flight, as well as their deep, rolling calls.

King Eider

King Eiders are large sea ducks with a distinctive appearance, especially in the males. They have a black body, a white belly, and a pale green nape on their head. The males also have a bright orange bill with a distinctive, curved spatulate shape. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body. King Eiders prefer coastal areas with sea ice, where they dive for mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish. They are known for their complex courtship displays, which involve males raising their napes and engaging in synchronized swimming and head movements.

Common Goldeneye

Common Goldeneyes are medium-sized sea ducks with a striking appearance. The males have a black head with a round white patch, a black back, and a white body. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body. These ducks can be found in both freshwater and saltwater habitats, where they dive to find invertebrates, seeds, and aquatic plants. Common Goldeneyes are known for their swift and direct flight, as well as their ability to swim and dive underwater for extended periods.

Barrow’s Goldeneye

Barrow’s Goldeneyes are sea ducks with a distinctive white crescent on the face and a striking black and white pattern. The males have a black head with a round white patch, a black back, and a white body. Females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body and a smaller version of the male’s crescent. Barrow’s Goldeneyes prefer freshwater habitats, such as rivers and lakes, where they dive to find invertebrates, seeds, and aquatic plants. They are known for their fast and direct flight, as well as their elaborate courtship displays, which involve males raising their crests and engaging in synchronized swimming and diving.

Red-breasted Merganser

Red-breasted Mergansers are sea ducks with a striking appearance, especially in the males. They have a gray body, a black and white striped head, and a bright red bill. The females have a mottled brown appearance with a pale gray body. These ducks can be found in both saltwater and freshwater habitats, where they dive to find fish, invertebrates, and small amphibians. Red-breasted Mergansers are known for their rapid and direct flight, as well as their ability to swim and dive underwater for extended periods.

Identification Tips

Beak Shape

One of the key identification features of ducks is their beak shape. Different duck species have beaks that are adapted to their feeding habits. Dabbling ducks, such as the Mallard and Northern Shoveler, have broad, flat beaks that they use to sieve through water and mud for food. Diving ducks, such as the Redhead and Bufflehead, have narrow, serrated beaks that they use to catch fish. Sea ducks, such as the Surf Scoter and Common Eider, have stout, strong beaks that they use to crack open shells of mollusks and crustaceans.

White Patches

White patches on the wings or body can also help in identifying duck species. For example, the male Mallard has a distinctive white neck ring, while the male Common Goldeneye has a white patch on its face. These white patches are often more pronounced in males and can vary in size and shape among different species.

Calls

Ducks have a wide range of vocalizations, from quacks to whistles and trills. Each duck species has its own unique call, which can be used to identify them. For example, the Mallard has a classic quack, while the Bufflehead produces a high-pitched whistle. Learning to recognize these calls can greatly aid in identifying duck species, especially when visual cues are limited.

Heads

The shape and coloration of a duck’s head can be a helpful identification feature. For example, the male Northern Pintail has a long, slender neck and a pointed tail, which are characteristic features of the species. The male Wood Duck has a distinctive iridescent green head and bright red eyes. Paying attention to these details can help in distinguishing between different duck species.

Tails

The shape and coloration of a duck’s tail can also provide valuable information for identification. For example, the male Cinnamon Teal has a long, pointed tail that stands out against its cinnamon-colored plumage. The male Long-tailed Duck has an elegant, elongated tail, which is characteristic of the species. Observing these tail characteristics can aid in identifying duck species, especially in flight or when the rest of the bird is not visible.

Season Guide

Ducks Spotted All Year

Some duck species in California can be spotted all year round. These include the Mallard, Northern Shoveler, American Wigeon, and Gadwall, among others. These ducks are either resident species or have a wide distribution and can be found in various habitats throughout the year. They may undergo some movement within the state but can generally be seen regardless of the season.

Ducks Spotted During Winter

During the winter months, California becomes a haven for migratory ducks. Many species travel south from their breeding grounds in the north to spend the winter in the milder climate of California. Some of the ducks that can be spotted during winter include the Ruddy Duck, Bufflehead, Ring-necked Duck, and Lesser Scaup, among others. These ducks can often be seen in large flocks, taking advantage of the abundant food resources available in California’s wetlands and coastal areas during the colder months.

Duck Subfamilies

Ducks belong to the family Anatidae, which also includes swans and geese. Within the duck family, there are various subfamilies. The most common subfamilies found in California are dabbling ducks, diving ducks, and sea ducks.

Dabbling Ducks

Dabbling ducks, such as the Mallard and Northern Shoveler, are often found in shallow water, where they feed by upending their bodies and reaching for vegetation and insects. They have broad, flat beaks that are adapted for this feeding behavior. Dabbling ducks are known for their ability to take off vertically from the water, using their powerful wingbeats to lift off.

Diving Ducks

Diving ducks, such as the Redhead and Canvasback, are excellent swimmers and divers. They have narrow, serrated beaks that allow them to catch fish and invertebrates underwater. Diving ducks are capable of diving to significant depths in search of food and can stay submerged for extended periods. They are often found in deeper water, such as lakes and coastal areas.

Sea Ducks

Sea ducks, such as the Surf Scoter and Common Eider, are adapted to life in marine environments. They have stout, strong beaks that they use to crack open shells of mollusks and crustaceans. Sea ducks are often found along coastlines and in nearshore waters, where they dive for food. They are excellent swimmers and can ride the waves with ease.

Characteristics and Calls

Each duck species has its own distinct characteristics and calls.

Mallard

The Mallard is one of the most familiar duck species, with a distinctive green head, yellow bill, and brownish body. Mallards have a variety of vocalizations, including the classic quack. Males also produce a soft, low-pitched whistle during courtship displays.

Northern Shoveler

The Northern Shoveler is known for its unique, shovel-shaped bill. These ducks produce a variety of calls, including a series of soft whistles and nasal quacks. The males also produce a distinctive call during courtship displays, which has been described as a low-pitched chuckle.

American Wigeon

American Wigeons have a distinctive white patch on their forehead and produce a variety of vocalizations. Their calls include a high-pitched, whistling “wee-u” sound and a series of nasal quacks. Males also produce a rapid, trilling whistle during courtship displays.

Gadwall

Gadwalls are small dabbling ducks with a mottled gray-brown plumage. They produce a variety of calls, including a soft, low-pitched quack and a nasal whistle. Males also produce a series of throaty grunts and growls during courtship displays.

Green-winged Teal

Green-winged Teals are the smallest dabbling ducks in North America, but they have a variety of vocalizations. Their calls include a series of high-pitched whistles and a rapid, nasal “peek-a-peek” sound. Males also produce a soft, high-pitched whistle during courtship displays.

Cinnamon Teal

Cinnamon Teals have a distinctive cinnamon-colored plumage and produce a variety of vocalizations. Their calls include a series of whistles, quacks, and nasal grunts. Males also produce a soft, nasal whistle during courtship displays.

Blue-winged Teal

Blue-winged Teals have a unique coloration pattern and produce a variety of vocalizations. Their calls include a series of low, raspy quacks and an occasional high-pitched whistle. Males also produce a low, raspy whistle during courtship displays.

Northern Pintail

Northern Pintails are known for their elegant appearance and produce a variety of vocalizations. Their calls include a low, soft quack and a series of nasal whistles. Males also produce a soft, high-pitched whistle during courtship displays.

Wood Duck

Wood Ducks are known for their stunning colors and produce a variety of vocalizations. Their calls include a series of whistles, squeals, and soft chuckles. Males also produce a high-pitched, rising whistle during courtship displays.

Canvasback

Canvasbacks are large diving ducks with a striking appearance and produce a variety of vocalizations. Their calls include a low, resonant croak and a soft nasal whistle. Males also produce a variety of grunts and growls during courtship displays.

Nests and Breeding Habits

Duck nesting and breeding habits vary among species, but they generally follow similar patterns.

Nesting Sites

Ducks typically build their nests near bodies of water, such as ponds, lakes, wetlands, or rivers. The female selects a concealed spot on the ground or in vegetation, where she constructs a nest out of grasses, leaves, and other plant materials. The nest is usually lined with down feathers for insulation.

Incubation and Egg Laying

After constructing the nest, the female lays a clutch of eggs. The number of eggs laid varies among species, with some ducks laying as few as 6 eggs and others laying up to 14 or more. The eggs are incubated primarily by the female, although the male may take turns incubating the eggs during short breaks. Incubation periods vary, but they typically last around 25 to 30 days.

Ducklings

Once the eggs hatch, the ducklings are precocial, which means they are able to leave the nest and feed themselves shortly after hatching. The female leads the ducklings to water, where they begin to learn how to swim, dive, and feed. The female provides protection and guidance to the ducklings during their early stages of life, teaching them important survival skills.

Migratory Behavior

Many duck species are migratory and undertake long-distance journeys between their breeding and wintering grounds. Ducks follow well-established migration routes, often traveling in large flocks. Migration patterns vary among species, with some ducks traveling thousands of miles, while others have shorter migrations within their breeding range.

Fun Facts and Interesting Information

Mallard

• Male Mallards, or drakes, have a green head during breeding season, but molt into a more subdued plumage during the non-breeding season.
• Female Mallards, or hens, have a mottled brown appearance, which provides excellent camouflage for nesting.
• Mallards are adaptable and can adapt to a wide range of habitats, from urban parks to remote wetlands.
• Mallards are known for their “dabbling” feeding behavior, where they tip their bodies forward to reach vegetation and invertebrates in shallow water.

Northern Shoveler

• The Northern Shoveler gets its name from its unique, shovel-shaped bill, which it uses to sift through water and mud for food.
• These ducks are primarily herbivores, feeding on aquatic vegetation and invertebrates.
• Northern Shovelers are often found in shallow wetlands, where they can be seen gracefully swimming with their heads and bills submerged as they feed.

American Wigeon

• The American Wigeon has a distinctive white forehead patch, which is more pronounced in males.
• These ducks are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including marshes, ponds, and estuaries.
• American Wigeons are often seen in small flocks and can form mixed-species flocks with other dabbling ducks.

Gadwall

• Gadwalls are known for their quiet nature and are often overlooked due to their subtle coloring.
• These ducks are often found in freshwater ponds and marshes, where they feed on aquatic plants, seeds, and invertebrates.
• Gadwalls have a broad, flat bill that is well-suited for their feeding behavior, which involves dabbling and sieving through water and mud.

Green-winged Teal

• Green-winged Teals are the smallest dabbling ducks in North America.
• These ducks prefer freshwater habitats, where they feed on seeds, insects, and vegetation.
• Green-winged Teals are highly migratory and can be seen in large flocks during the migration season.

Cinnamon Teal

• Cinnamon Teals have a distinctive cinnamon-colored plumage and bright red eyes.
• These ducks prefer freshwater marshes, ponds, and lakes, where they feed on aquatic vegetation, seeds, and invertebrates.
• Cinnamon Teals are known for their distinctive calls, which include a series of whistles and quacks.

Blue-winged Teal

• Blue-winged Teals have a unique coloration pattern, with a grayish-blue head and a white crescent on their face.
• These ducks prefer freshwater habitats, where they feed on aquatic vegetation, seeds, and invertebrates.
• Blue-winged Teals are highly migratory and can be seen in large flocks during the migration season.

Northern Pintail

• Northern Pintails are known for their elegant appearance, with a long, slender neck and a pointed tail.
• These ducks prefer shallow wetlands, where they feed on seeds, insects, and aquatic plants.
• Northern Pintails are highly migratory and undertake long-distance journeys between their breeding and wintering grounds.

Wood Duck

• Wood Ducks are unique among ducks, as they have strong claws that allow them to perch on tree branches.
• These ducks prefer woodland areas near water, where they feed on acorns, seeds, insects, and aquatic plants.
• Wood Ducks are known for their stunning colors and intricate patterns, making them a favorite among birdwatchers and photographers.

Canvasback

• Canvasbacks are known for their striking appearance, with a reddish-brown head, black chest, and pale gray body.
• These ducks are excellent divers and can stay underwater for extended periods in search of food.
• Canvasbacks are highly migratory and can travel long distances between their breeding and wintering grounds.

Conclusion

California is home to a diverse array of duck species, each with its own unique characteristics and calls. Dabbling ducks, diving ducks, and sea ducks can be found throughout the state, inhabiting a variety of habitats ranging from wetlands and ponds to coastal areas. Identifying ducks can be done by observing their beak shape, white patches, calls, heads, and tails.

Dabbling ducks such as the Mallard, Northern Shoveler, American Wigeon, Gadwall, and Green-winged Teal are commonly spotted in California. Diving ducks like the Ruddy Duck, Bufflehead, Ring-necked Duck, Lesser Scaup, and Redhead can also be observed in various habitats. Sea ducks, including the Surf Scoter, Common Eider, and Red-breasted Merganser, are often seen along the coastlines.

Understanding duck nesting and breeding habits can provide insight into their behavior. Ducks typically build nests near bodies of water and lay a clutch of eggs, which are incubated primarily by the female. Once the eggs hatch, the ducklings are precocial and quickly learn how to swim and feed themselves.

Whether admiring their elegant appearances, listening to their unique calls, or observing their interesting behaviors, ducks are fascinating creatures that captivate birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. So grab your binoculars, head out to your favorite wetland, and enjoy the wonderful world of ducks in California!