Ring-necked Duck x Scaup Hybrid (Greater/Lesser)
Ring-necked Duck x Scaup Hybrid (Greater/Lesser)
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This is a hybrid duck resulting from a cross between a Ring-necked Duck (Aythya collaris) and a scaup species (Greater Scaup, Aythya marila, or Lesser Scaup, Aythya affinis). Such hybrids can display a complex mosaic of features, often blurring the distinctive characteristics of each parent.
Where to spot
Found in freshwater environments such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers, particularly in North America where all parent species breed and winter.
How to spot
Look for a combination of the Ring-necked Duck's peaked head, black back, and distinctive bill markings with scaup-like overall size, head sheen, or flank coloration. Pay close attention to the bill pattern and head crest.
When to spot
Most commonly observed during non-breeding seasons (fall, winter, spring) when ducks form larger, mixed flocks on open water bodies.
Where to spot
Found in freshwater environments such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers, particularly in North America where all parent species breed and winter.
How to spot
Look for a combination of the Ring-necked Duck's peaked head, black back, and distinctive bill markings with scaup-like overall size, head sheen, or flank coloration. Pay close attention to the bill pattern and head crest.
When to spot
Most commonly observed during non-breeding seasons (fall, winter, spring) when ducks form larger, mixed flocks on open water bodies.
Natural hybridization among duck species is not uncommon, especially within closely related genera like Aythya, leading to diverse and sometimes puzzling individuals that challenge identification skills.
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