Most all of the continent. Numerous in west, winter in the south and expanding their range eastward.

Widespread in shallow fresh water, especially near grain fields. Found in small flocks, often with pintails.

Blocky head with steep forehead and flattened crown. Narrow gray bill with orange edges on female. White inner secondary feathers (called speculum) are noticeable when wings are expanded. Male has a gray body with a black rump and undertail covets, a white belly, brownish head and neck with rusty shoulder. Female plumage is mallard-like except for a dark tail, white belly and speculum.

Up very early and drive to the Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge in northern California for a day of photographing the unbelievable number of birds here as well as the vast quantity of different types.