Waterfowl identification

Illustrations of several common Utah waterfowl

Canvasbacks

One of the largest and fastest ducks. The wedge-shaped bill gives this duck a unique profile. The drake has a whitish back.

Wilson's (common) snipe

The snipe usually flushes singly or in pairs and has a rust-colored patch on the back.

Dowitcher (do not shoot)

The dowitcher, which flushes in flocks, has a white patch on the back.

Gadwall

Often mistaken for a mallard. Quicker and more agile than the mallard. Length 21", Weight 2 lbs.

Mallard

Drake has solid green head and short tail. Hen is mottled brown. Length 24", Weight 2.75 lbs.

Pintail

Distinguished by long, pointed tail. Very wary. Length 26", Weight 1.75 lbs.

Redhead

Often confused with the canvasback, the redhead has a grayer back and a more rounded head. Length 20", Weight 2.5 lbs.

Ring-necked duck

Both sexes have a pale, whitish ring around the tip of their bill. In flight, wings and back appear darker than on the scaup. Length 17", Weight 2.5 lbs.

Shoveler

Often called "spoon bill" and mistaken for mallard. Length 19.5" Weight 1.5 lbs.

Scaup

Scaup has a blue bill and a white band along the back of the wing. Length 17" Weight 1.8 lbs.