Canvasback

Aythya valisineria

Canvasbacks are the biggest of the diving ducks found in the state.  They are generally more wary and less tolerant of human presence than some of the other ducks.  Numbers are far below historical levels, probably due to losses adequate wetlands for breeding

Habitat: Marshes, sloughs, shallow lakes and ponds with emergent vegetation along the edges. 

Diet: Mostly the leaves, roots, and seeds of aquatic plants, also some insects, crustaceans, and small fish.

Behavior: Primarily forages in water a few feet deep, diving underwater for food.  They also sometimes feed at the surface, either grabbing food items from the water's surface, or tipping down and submerging their head underwater.

Nesting: May through July

Breeding Map: Breeding bird survey map

Song: Croaks or grunts.

Migration: Summers in the western U.S., northern Great Plains, Alaska, and western Canada.  Winters in the southern U.S., near the U.S. coasts, and Mexico.

Similar Species: Redhead

Conservation Status: Has been in general decline the last several decades.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Canvasback

2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - Canvasback"

3) eNature.com: Canvasback

Photo Information: March 30th, 2003 -- Western Minnehaha County -- Terry L. Sohl

Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Canvasback photos.