Ring-necked Duck vs Lesser Scaup

In short

Ring-necked Ducks and Lesser Scaups are both small diving ducks, but they can be distinguished by head shape and bill markings. The Ring-necked Duck has a peaked head and a distinctive white ring near the tip of its bill, while the Lesser Scaup has a more rounded head and lacks this bill ring.

Identification tips

• Head shape: Ring-necked Duck has a peaked head, Lesser Scaup has a rounded head.
• Bill markings: Look for the white ring near the bill tip of the Ring-necked Duck.
• Plumage: Note the black back and white side stripe of the male Ring-necked Duck compared to the gray back of the male Lesser Scaup.
• Habitat: Consider the type of water body; Ring-necked Ducks prefer smaller, vegetated wetlands.

Size

Both species are similar in size, but the Ring-necked Duck may appear slightly more compact due to its peaked head.

Plumage

The Ring-necked Duck has a more angular head profile and a white ring near the tip of its bill. The male has a black back and a white vertical stripe on the side, while the Lesser Scaup male has a more uniformly gray back and lacks the bill ring.

Behaviour

Both species are diving ducks and exhibit similar feeding behaviors, diving for food in shallow waters.

Habitat

Ring-necked Ducks prefer shallow, freshwater wetlands with abundant vegetation, while Lesser Scaups are often found on larger bodies of water, including lakes and reservoirs.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature between these two species in the field.