What duck?

[Eric Patdu]

Saw this duck today at Ashland, NE. There were Northern Shovelers and Blue-winged Teals in the pond but no other ducks (aside from Canada Geese which are not ducks ) that's why this one stands out from the rest.

[Robert Doiron]

This is a male GADWALL.

[Eric Patdu]

Thanks Robert. I looked at my field guide and can't seem to find a match on the plumage. But now that you've ID'ed it, a second look confirms it.

Thanks again for the ID.

[John Chardine]

Gadwalls are a bit strange in that way Eric-on the surface quite plain and easy to miss, but a closer look reveals a very handsome duck indeed. And they are even more beautiful when they open their wings and reveal a patch of rich, brick red.