Lesser Scaup vs. Ring-necked Duck

Attribute	Lesser Scaup	Ring-necked Duck
Scientific Name	Aythya affinis	Aythya collaris
Size	Medium-sized	Medium-sized
Plumage	Males have black heads and white flanks	Males have black heads and a distinctive chestnut ring around the neck
Range	North America	North America
Habitat	Freshwater lakes and marshes	Freshwater lakes and marshes

Physical Appearance

Both the Lesser Scaup and Ring-necked Duck are medium-sized diving ducks with similar body shapes. The Lesser Scaup has a dark head with a purple sheen, a black chest, and a gray body. In contrast, the Ring-necked Duck has a black head with a distinctive white ring around its neck, a black chest, and a gray body. The Lesser Scaup has a bright yellow eye, while the Ring-necked Duck has a yellow eye with a white ring around it.

Habitat

The Lesser Scaup and Ring-necked Duck have overlapping ranges in North America, but they prefer different habitats. The Lesser Scaup is commonly found in freshwater lakes, ponds, and marshes, while the Ring-necked Duck tends to inhabit wooded swamps, beaver ponds, and slow-moving rivers. Both species can be found in coastal areas during migration, but the Lesser Scaup is more likely to be seen on open water, while the Ring-necked Duck prefers more sheltered habitats.

Behavior

When it comes to behavior, the Lesser Scaup and Ring-necked Duck exhibit some differences. The Lesser Scaup is known for its diving abilities, often disappearing beneath the water for extended periods in search of food. In contrast, the Ring-necked Duck is more likely to dabble at the surface, tipping forward to reach aquatic plants and invertebrates. Both species are social birds and can often be found in large flocks during the winter months.

Diet

The diet of the Lesser Scaup and Ring-necked Duck is similar, consisting mainly of aquatic plants, seeds, and invertebrates. However, the Lesser Scaup is more likely to feed on small crustaceans and insects, while the Ring-necked Duck tends to focus on plant matter. Both species are opportunistic feeders and will adjust their diet based on seasonal availability and habitat conditions.

Migration

Both the Lesser Scaup and Ring-necked Duck are migratory birds that breed in northern regions and winter in more temperate climates. The Lesser Scaup has a more extensive migration range, traveling from its breeding grounds in the northern United States and Canada to wintering areas in the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America. The Ring-necked Duck has a more limited migration range, with some populations staying in the southern United States year-round.

Conservation Status

Both the Lesser Scaup and Ring-necked Duck are considered to be of least concern in terms of conservation status, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, both species face threats from habitat loss, pollution, and hunting. Conservation efforts are underway to protect wetland habitats and regulate hunting practices to ensure the long-term survival of these two duck species.