Here at our mountain retreat, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of Costa Rica’s highlands, we’re fortunate to be surrounded by a symphony of birdlife. Today, we turn our gaze to a rather uncommon visitor, a splash of color against the serene mountain lakes – the Ruddy Duck (Pato Cariblanco).

While not as ubiquitous as some of their wetland brethren, the Ruddy Duck graces Costa Rica with its presence on rare occasions. Classified as “accidental” by birders, spotting one is a coup for any nature enthusiast.

A Distinctive Diver

The Ruddy Duck is a compact fellow, easily distinguished by its unique body shape. Unlike ducks that dabble at the water’s surface, the Ruddy Duck is a master diver, equipped with a stout, scoop-shaped bill ideal for foraging underwater. Their short, thick necks and slightly peaked heads give them a determined air, while their long, stiff tails, often held erect, add a touch of whimsy.

A Tale of Two Plumages

The Ruddy Duck’s appearance varies depending on the season. During breeding season, the males transform into a sight to behold. Their bodies become a rich, almost rusty chestnut, contrasting beautifully with their jet-black caps. But the true showstopper is their bill – a vibrant sky blue that seems to rival the mountain sky itself. A stark white patch adorns their cheeks, adding another layer of intrigue.

Come winter, the males trade their flamboyant attire for a more subdued look. Their feathers turn a dull grayish-brown, and their once-bright blue bill becomes a muted gray. The females, year-round, are even more understated, sporting a similar brownish plumage with a blurry stripe across their pale cheeks.

A Life Aquatic

The Ruddy Duck is a creature of the open water, preferring deep lakes and lagoons to the shallow edges frequented by other ducks. Here, they spend most of their time diving for aquatic invertebrates and plant material like seeds and sprouts. Their shy nature keeps them away from the shorelines, making them even more elusive to spot.

A Rare Encounter

While sightings of the Ruddy Duck in Costa Rica are uncommon, particularly in the highlands, keeping an eye out on our serene mountain lakes might just reward you with a glimpse of this fascinating visitor. Their brief stopovers add a touch of the unexpected to our mountain paradise, a reminder of the incredible diversity of avian life Costa Rica has to offer.

Have you ever encountered a Ruddy Duck? Share your experiences in the comments below!sharemore_vert

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica

This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)