Geese, Ducks, Mergansers

Canvasback, Aythya valisineria

Family Anatidae (Geese, Ducks, Mergansers)

Size: 21"

Season: Winter

Habitat: Grassy wetlands, lakes

The canvasback is a stocky, thick-necked diving duck with a long, shallow forehead that slopes into the angle of the bill. The middle section of the breeding male, including back, wings, and belly, is entirely white. The tail and breast are black, and the head is a rusty brown that is darker on the crown and front of the face. The eye is deep red. The female is very pale overall, with a light, canvas-colored back and a tan head and neck. The canvasback runs across the water to take flight, whereupon its light middle and darker ends are striking. It usually feeds by diving for aquatic plants. The breeding male is illustrated.