description Andean Duck Overview
The Andean Duck, Oxyura ferruginea, is a stiff-tailed diving duck found in high-altitude wetlands of the Andes in South America. It spends much of its time on lakes and lagoons, where it dives for aquatic food and uses its tail as a characteristic stiff rudder when swimming. Adult males are strongly patterned and have a blue bill with dark head and neck markings, while females and nonbreeding birds are more subdued in color.
help Andean Duck FAQ
What is the scientific name of the Andean Duck?
The Andean Duck is Oxyura ferruginea. It is a stiff-tailed diving duck of high-altitude wetlands in the Andes.
Where does the Andean Duck live?
It is found in lakes and lagoons at high elevations across the Andes of South America. The species spends much of its time on water and dives for aquatic food.
Why does the Andean Duck hold its tail stiffly?
Its stiff tail acts like a rudder while it swims and dives. This tail posture is one of the features that gives stiff-tailed ducks their common name.
What does the Andean Duck eat?
It dives for aquatic food in lakes and lagoons. The supplied species description does not specify one exclusive food item, so its diet is best described generally rather than assigned a precise menu.
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