Habitat:
Lakes, ponds, marshes

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Ruddy Duck is a small diving duck with distinctive plumage. The male has a black head with a bright blue bill, a reddish-brown body, and often holds its tail upright. The female is more subdued, with brown plumage and subtler facial patterns. These ducks are commonly found in North American wetlands but have also been introduced to Europe. They prefer calm waters rich in vegetation, feeding mainly on aquatic plants, insects, and small crustaceans. Their behavior is generally not very shy, making them accessible for observation. They are known for their spectacular courtship displays, where the male shows off his blue bill and upright tail to attract the female.

Recommended lens:
400mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Ruddy Duck, aim for early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft. Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture precise details without disturbing the bird. Keep a distance of at least 5 m to avoid scaring it. Be patient and wait for the bird to relax to get natural shots. Reflections on the water can add an artistic dimension to your photos, so try to include the aquatic environment in your compositions.