Ducks, geese, and swans · Waterfowl
Long-tailed Duck
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Clangula hyemalis
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How to recognize it
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Small, compact diving duck
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Male with very long, thin tail, often raised above the water
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Winter male: white head and neck, dark cheek patch, dark breast
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Narrow pointed wings; fast direct flight, usually in noisy flocks
About the species
The Long-tailed Duck stands out most by the male’s very long tail and the way it sits on the water — compact and alert, with the tail held high. It has a sturdy look and a low, streamlined shape that fits life on open water.
It is a lively, noisy duck. Males call often, especially in spring and early summer, and a flock can sound surprisingly full and musical; they also make their presence known when taking off or landing. When leaving the water, they run into the wind before lifting off.
Outside the breeding season it stays far from shore, on the sea or large lakes, and during breeding it uses tundra and forest-tundra waters. It feeds by diving to the bottom for mollusks, crustaceans, small fish, and other aquatic food, and in winter it often gathers in large flocks.
Where to find
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On large city lakes and reservoirs, where Long-tailed Duck dives for food and pops up again a few meters away in loose groups.
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Along canal edges, harbor basins, and any unfrozen pond in winter — look for repeated short dives and quick resurfacing between bits of ice.
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On windy waterfronts and breakwaters, it often stays farther out from shore in noisy flocks, with males giving a yodelling call.
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Near reedy lake margins and quiet inlets, watch for low, compact shapes that vanish underwater and resurface elsewhere moments later.
You might also see
Sources
- eBird — Clangula hyemalis Sightings map and full description on eBird
- Wikipedia — Long-tailed duck Encyclopedia article