The Argentine Ruddy Duck is a stiff-tailed duck found in South America, closely related to the North American Ruddy Duck. It is characterized by its compact body and stiff tail, which is often held upright like a rudder.
Where to spot
Found in southern South America, including Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Paraguay, and parts of Bolivia and southern Brazil. It inhabits freshwater wetlands, lakes, and marshes.
How to spot
Look for a small, compact diving duck with a long, stiff tail that is often cocked upwards. Males in breeding plumage have a vibrant blue bill, a white face with a black cap, and a reddish-brown body. Females are duller but share the characteristic stiff tail posture. They spend much of their time on water.
When to spot
Year-round in its native range. Breeding activity generally peaks during the Southern Hemisphere's spring and summer (typically September-February).
Where to spot
Found in southern South America, including Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Paraguay, and parts of Bolivia and southern Brazil. It inhabits freshwater wetlands, lakes, and marshes.
How to spot
Look for a small, compact diving duck with a long, stiff tail that is often cocked upwards. Males in breeding plumage have a vibrant blue bill, a white face with a black cap, and a reddish-brown body. Females are duller but share the characteristic stiff tail posture. They spend much of their time on water.
When to spot
Year-round in its native range. Breeding activity generally peaks during the Southern Hemisphere's spring and summer (typically September-February).
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This species is part of the 'Ruddy Duck complex,' and its taxonomic distinction from the North American Ruddy Duck and Andean Ruddy Duck has been debated, with some considering them conspecific or a subspecies.
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