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Ruddy Duck
Oxyura jamaicensis jamaicensis
Diet
The ruddy duck dives underwater to feed on seeds, roots, aquatic invertebrates, crustaceans, insects, and larvae.
Habitat
Inhabits lakes, ponds, marshes, and bays. Needs dense vegetation for nesting.
Nesting
Eggs from a female ruddy duck are the largest eggs of any waterfowl when compared to its body size. The female builds a nest from surrounding vegetation, in which she lays 5-15 eggs.
Did you know?
The ruddy duck’s legs are placed far back on its body, making diving and swimming easy but walking on land a clumsy act.