Redhead
Photo: Judy Gallagher · CC BY 2.0

Ducks, Swans, and Geese

Redhead

Aythya americana

LCLeast Concern
Family
Ducks, Swans, and Geese (Anatidae)
Order
Anseriformes

Overview

The redhead (Aythya americana) is a medium-sized diving duck. Its scientific name is derived from Greek aithuia, an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors including Hesychius and Aristotle, and Latin americana, of America. The redhead is 40–56 cm (16–22 in) long with an 74–84 cm (29–33 in) wingspan; weights range from 1,030–1,080 g (36–38 oz), with males weighing an average of 1,080 g (38 oz) and females an average of 1,030 g (36 oz). It belongs to the genus Aythya, together with 11 other described species.

Summary from Wikipedia, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Range and habitat

Breeds Alaska to southern USA; winters to Guatemala and Greater Antilles.

Range description: AviList Global Avian Checklist.

Sources and further reading

Last updated September 29, 2026.