Crested Duck (Lophonetta specularioides)

Identification & Behavior: ~55 cm (21.6 in).  The Crested Duck has a neck and head light brown with a variable amount of dusky or black around the eye. The back and underparts are light brown with pale mottles and dusky streaks.  The bill and legs are dusky. Similar species include the Yellow-billed Pintail and Yellow-billed Teal.

Status: The Crested Ducks is uncommon in the high Andes where it ranges at elevations between 3500 to 4800 m. Generally found in shallow areas and edges of bodies of water.

Name in Spanish: Pato Crestón.

Sub-species: Crested Duck (Lophonetta specularioides alticola), Menegaux, 1909.

Meaning of Name: Lophonetta: Gr. Lopho=a crest, netta=a duck. specularioides: L. speculum= a mirror, referring to the green glossy speculum in the wings, oides=resemble.  A speculum that resembles a mirror.

See more of the Family Anatidae