Oldsquaw

a.k.a. Long-tailed Duck

Clangula hyemalis

An Oldsquaw drake, showing clearly the notably extended tail feathers, at Frazier's Aviaries

This small diving duck occurs throughout the northern portion of the Northern Hemisphere. It winters further south in huge groups.

Oldsquaws nest on the ground near water. The males leave the females shortly after the beginning of incubation and form all-nale molting flocks.

The 6-11 grayish-buff eggs are incubated for 24 days and the ducklings take to the water immediately after hatching.

A flock of Oldsquaw, 2 males and 3 females

The male in the first picture is in breeding plumage, while the one in the second picture is in winter plumage

A juvenile Oldsquaw female
Photo courtesy of Ian Gereg

Oldsquaw ducklings
Photo courtesy of Ian Gereg

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