Aytha collaris

Stebbins Nature Sanctuary, Longmeadow, Massachusetts

The default early spring migratory duck of New England ponds and lakes, the Ring-necked is often found when open water is still surrounded by ice. It is headed north, and breeds in the taiga, boreal and aspen subarctic parklands. The male has a distinctive bill with a white ring near the tip, and another white border near the base. It associates with other migratory ducks including hooded mergansers, wigeon, and shovelers.