Canvasback Duck

Ducks Duck Pictures Lesser Scaup Redhead Duck Ring-necked

The Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) is a diving duck with a thick neck and a distinct profile appearance.

They are found throughout the United States, mostly on a seasonal basis, breeding in a large area of the Pacific Northwest northward throughout Western Canadian Provinces. They winter in southern areas of the United States, including coastal regions.

The picture shows the male Canvasback in breeding plumage. The red head and neck and eyes are complimented by a white body. From afar, males can be confused with the male Redhead Duck. Canvasbacks have a straighter sloping profile from the top of the forehead to the tip of the bill. Females have mostly all brown feathers with a similar profile and black bill.

They are primarily herbivores but they occasionally eat aquatic insects and invertebrates.

© 2005-2008 Patricia A. Michaels