Long-tailed Duck
Clangula hyemalis
The Long-tailed Duck is a rare but occasional winter visitor to Britain, typically seen in coastal areas, particularly in the northern and eastern regions. It can be spotted from October to March, with the majority of sightings occurring during periods of harsh weather when birds are forced to migrate further south.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Long-tailed Duck in the field.
The Long-tailed Duck can be identified by its long, pointed tail, greyish-brown back, and white patches on its face, as well as its distinctive black and white wing pattern. Its head shape and bill size are also notable features that distinguish it from other duck species.
The Long-tailed Duck is slightly larger than a Goldeneye, but smaller than a Merganser, making it a medium-sized sea duck.
The male Long-tailed Duck has a striking black and white plumage, with a black back, white belly, and a long, pointed tail, as well as a pinkish-grey breast and a white patch on its forehead, with seasonal variations in the intensity of these colours.
The female Long-tailed Duck has a more subdued plumage than the male, with a brownish-grey back, white belly, and a less pronounced white patch on its forehead, making it less conspicuous than its male counterpart.
The Long-tailed Duck's call is a high-pitched, yodelling "ow-ow-ow" or "hoo-hoo-hoo" sound, often repeated in a series of descending notes.
Long-tailed Ducks are diving birds that feed on aquatic plants, crustaceans, and small invertebrates, often swimming with their heads submerged and their tails held high, and they are also known for their rapid, erratic flight pattern.
The Long-tailed Duck can be confused with the Goldeneye or the Merganser, but it can be distinguished from these species by its long, pointed tail, distinctive black and white wing pattern, and its greyish-brown back, as well as its unique call and diving behaviour.
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