Western Bird Guide: Birds of the Rockies and West to the Pacific

by Charles K. Reed

CANVAS-BACK.

147. Marila valisineria. 21 inches.

Differs from the [Redhead] in the shape of its black bill, its blackish forehead, very light colored back and red eyes, the Redhead having yellow eyes. Like the last species, these birds are excellent swimmers and divers, and secure their food from deeper water than many of the ducks. Their food consists of various fresh water plants and small fish; shell fish and frogs. These usually command the highest market price, and are much sought after by gunners.

Nest.—On the ground in marshes or sloughs, lined with grass and feathers. 6 to 10 eggs of a pale olive (2.40 × 1.70).

Range.—North America; breeding from central British Columbia south to Oregon and Minnesota.

SCAUP DUCK OR BLUE-BILL.

148. Marila marila. 18 inches.

This and the following are widely known as Blue-bills owing to the slaty blue color of that member. Head, neck and breast are black; speculum and under parts white, and eyes yellow.

Nest.—In marshes about many of the ponds in the interior of British Columbia. 6 to 10 eggs pale greenish gray (2.50 × 1.70).