Ruddy Ducks
Walking on the Wild Side
Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis)
Ruddy Ballet (Ruddy Duck)
Published in 2024 Montana Outdoors Photo Edition
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This months blog will cover the courtship behavior of the Ruddy Duck. The ruddy is a small, stout diving duck known for their distinctive blue bills and chestnut bodies of the male during the breeding season. Having a nearby group of breeding ducks, I have had the pleasure of watching these birds in action. What struck me most was their unique courtship behavior. Here is a sneak peak into their unique rituals and practices that define the romantic life of a ruddy duck.
A Dazzling Display
Like many bird species, breeding season means a change in plumage. For the ruddy ducks, the male undergoes a dramatic transformation to a striking chestnut color, and his bill turns a vivid blue, signaling his readiness to mate.
After this transformation the males will perform a series of elaborate displays and vocalizations. My favorite is their "bubble display". The male submerges part of his body underwater and then rapidly expels air from his chest, creating a series of bubbles. This display is often accompanied by a series of calls that range from grunts to soft cooing sounds, further demonstrating his fitness to potential mates.
Bubbles of Joy (Ruddy Duck)
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The Dance
Further more, the male performs a sequence of movements to catch the female's eyes. This includes head-pumping and a display known as "the rush" where he dashes across the water's surface with his head held low and tail raised high. This "dance" is not only meant to impress the females, it is meant to establish a male's dominance among the group. The females watch closely, assessing each male's performance and physical condition. If she is impressed, she may respond with her own set of behaviors indicating her interest.
The Rush (Ruddy Duck)
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Choosing the Perfect Mate
Females must choose a good mate so they are selective when making a choice. They look for males with bold coloration of the bill and those that exhibit intensity in their courtship displays. These factors are indicators of good health and strong genetics.
Once a female has chosen a mate, the pair will engage in mutual displays to reinforce their bond. Typically you will see them swim together mirroring each other's movements while vocalizing their "love".
Muted Colors (Ruddy Duck)
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The courtship behavior of the ruddy duck was fascinating and humorous to me, with the bubbles and "the rush" as the highlights of the display. Observing these behaviors in the wild offers not only a deeper understanding of a species but also an appreciation for the complex rituals that result in the next generation. Besides, it never gets old watching such antics.
Show Off (Ruddy Duck)
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See you back next month,
Lea Frye - Wildlife photographer
www.leaf-images.com | Lea Frye, Wildlife Photographer | Helena, MT
Wild Animals / Wild Landscapes