Harlequin Duck

Description

Harlequin Duck males are uniquely patterned and unmistakable. They have dark blue-black plumage with unique white marking throughout the body and a reddish patch on the crown and flank. In contrast, the females are small, brown ducks with similar white facial features to the males. Females most closely resemble female Surf Scoters or Buffleheads. The much larger female scoters are easily differentiated from Harlequins by the much larger bill. Bufflehead females have a singular white face patch and a white wing patch. As with most sea ducks, Harlequins do not mature or attain full adult plumage until they are two years old.

Habitat and Status

The Harlequin Duck is an abundant resident of the Chugach Region. However, they are most prevalent during fall and early winter when they are conspicuous in small flocks along rocky shores of bays, fjords, and islands. These small ducks are usually found in the fast-moving waters of rivers or near jagged cliff lines but will move to slower water during breeding season. The females build their nest out of tree needles, moss, other vegetation, and down feathers. The nests can be found on the ground along stream shores, but also on cliff ledges and in tree cavities.

Much of their habitat remains pristine and they are numerous in Alaska throughout the year. Harlequins are affected by degradation of water quantity and quality, human development near breeding streams, and intense recreational activity. They are particularly vulnerable to oil spills because spilled oil is often deposited in their intertidal habitats (ADFG).

Distribution of Harlequin Ducks in the Chugach Region.