About This Species
A diving duck named for a subtle chestnut collar that's hard to see. More easily identified by the white ring around its bill.
Fun Facts
- Misnamed bird: The 'ring' around the neck is nearly impossible to see in the field; the bill ring is the better field mark.
- Pointed head shape: The peaked head shape helps distinguish it from similar scaup species.
- Diving specialist: Can dive to depths of 40 feet searching for aquatic plants and invertebrates.
- Hybrid potential: Occasionally hybridizes with other Aythya ducks like Lesser Scaup.