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Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis)

The Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis) is a captivating sea duck known for its striking plumage and long tail feathers, which are particularly prominent in males. This species thrives in the tundra during the breeding season and migrates to the northern coastlines of the Atlantic for winter, where it feeds on a diet rich in mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish.

Identification and Whereabouts

Males exhibit a distinctive pattern of white and black plumage, complemented by their characteristic long tail feathers. Their beaks are predominantly black, featuring a striking orange ring at the midpoint. In contrast, females possess a brownish body with a gray head, adorned with dark gray patches. The beak of the female is entirely black.

The Long-tailed Duck can be observed in large flocks along the St. Lawrence River during its migratory period.

All content on this page — including photos, videos, and field audio recordings — was created by Karl-Heinz Müller, a Montréal-based wildlife filmmaker, sound recordist, and photographer. Founder of MUUUH and Québec Sauvage, he has spent over a decade documenting Canada’s natural habitats through immersive soundscapes and wildlife films. Learn more about Karl-Heinz

Last updated: 2025-01-04