Tag Archives: Outdoors

The northern pintail (Anas acuta) is both unique and graceful. It is among the most common ducks of Kansas, congregating in tremendous flocks during migration.

The northern shoveler (Spatula clypeata) is named for its odd-looking bill. Although this appendage makes the duck look slightly ridiculous, it has its uses.

The male cinnamon teal (Spatula cyanoptera) is an unusual bird, unlikely to be confused with any other duck. He is mostly deep red from his eyes to his body. This red color is neatly trimmed at both ends with black, the oversized bill being blue-black and the tail being pure black. In the early fall,Continue reading “Cinnamon Teal”

This migratory duck is sure to delight with its unique pattern and aerial acrobatics.

The male and female mottled duck (Anas fulvigula) look about the same—unremarkable. Either one of them could easily be dismissed as just another female mallard, when in reality they are rare finds inland. So note the details. The mottled duck has a buffy tan head and throat, contrasting with the mottled brown body that givesContinue reading “Mottled Duck”

The mallard (Anas platrhynchos) is a duck that most will recognize readily. The yellow bill, green head, white neck ring, chestnut breast, gray sides, orange legs, and black tail curls of the male are familiar sights across the country. In flight, notice his white belly. The female is less conspicuous. She is mottled brown overall.Continue reading “Mallard”

The American black duck (Anas rubripes) is the darkest of the dabbling ducks. At first glance, it is easily dismissed as a particularly dark female of just about any duck species. But if you manage to get a good look, notice its intricately patterned feathers, dark brown-black with paler edges. Also note the relatively light-coloredContinue reading “American Black Duck”

The male American wigeon is fairly distinctive, but the wary female can present an identification challenge.

The male Eurasian wigeon (Mareca penelope) sports a distinctive look. His head is marked by contrast, thanks to his red-brown face, buffy cap, and blue-gray bill. But the remainder of his body is not less striking. His breast is a deep pink. At a distance, his back and sides may appear to be gray overall,Continue reading “Eurasian Wigeon”

The gadwall (Mareca strepera) is among the most plain-looking of American ducks. The male appears gray overall, an impression created by white feathers barred with black. The scapular feathers have a reddish-brown cast. Probably the most striking feature of the male gadwall is his solid black rump. His bill is also dark-colored. The female gadwallContinue reading “Gadwall”