Canvasback

Aythya valisineria

Breeds in North America & is a very rare vagrant to Britain.

Males has has a black bill, a chestnut red head and neck, a black breast, a grayish back, black rump, and a blackish brown tail.

The drake's sides, back, and belly are white with fine vermiculation resembling the weave of a canvas, which gave rise to the bird's common name.

The iris is bright red in the spring, but duller in the winter

Females also has has a black bill, a light brown head and neck, grading into a darker brown chest and foreback.

The sides, flanks, and back are greyish brown.

The bill is blackish and the legs and feet are bluish-gray.

Its sloping profile distinguishes it from other ducks.