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Nigel Key Ring-Necked Duck
(Slimbridge November 2013)
The Ring-Necked Duck is a Diving Duck from North America and is related to the Tufted Duck.
Although similar in appearance it can be distinguished from the Tufted Duck by the White edging at the base of its bill and lack of tuft at the back of the head.
(Compare the two Ducks.)
| Hear the Ring-Necked Duck's Call:- |
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Conservation Status
Size
420mm to 440mm (16" to 17")
Appearance - Male
The male has a Black head with Purple sheen, a Yellow eye, a Grey Blue bill with White edging at the base of the bill with a White band with a Black tip. The upper-parts, tail and vent are Black and the flanks are light Grey. The speculum is Silver Grey and the legs and feet are Grey.
Appearance - Female
The female has a Grey Brown angular head and body with a dark Brown back and a light chin and throat. The bill is Grey with a subtle light band and Brown eyes with a White eye ring. The legs and feet are Greyish Blue.
Habitat
Woodland Lakes, Ponds and Rivers.
Diet
Aquatic Plants and Insects, Roots, Seeds, Worms, Molluscs and Crustaceans.
Breeding Time
May to June.
Nest
The nest is a ‘bowl’ shape built from sedges and plants on dense vegetation in or near water.
Eggs
Quantity: 6 to 14
Colour: Cream/Buff.
