Ducks, geese and swans
Order Anseriformes: Ducks, geese and swans
Family Anatidae: Ducks
Black-bellied Whistling-Duck Dendrocygna autumnalis
Status and abundance: Rare visitor.
Habitat: Flooded fields, swampy wetlands, shallow lake borders, and large rivers.
Records and remarks: First recorded in 2008. A highly distinctive species with a characteristic call note given in flight (sometimes at night). Has usually occurred in small groups at wetlands near the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, rarely farther inland.
4, near Ware, 6-11 Jul 2008 (DK, MS)
2, Grand Tower, 13 Jun 2008 (M. Ward, JW)
2, Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve, 6 May 2009 (MML)
7, Union Co., 23 Apr 2011 (KM) and 3 there, 6 May 2011 (VK)
3, Massac Co., 28-29 Apr 2011 (CT, KM, MS, FB)
3, Union Co., 30 Apr 2017 (VL)
3, Big Muddy River, Jackson and Union Co., 10 Jun 2011 (J. Lill)
2, near Ware, 13 Jul 2011 (E. Gyllenhaal, A. Gyllenhaal)
1, Mermet Lake, 3 May 2012 (J. Schwegman, G. Keeler)
4, Carbondale Reservoir, 7 May 2016 (HD)
2, Oakwood Bottoms, 14 May 2016 (RR, HD, DM)
2, Crab Orchard NWR, 23 May 2019 (KRo)
4, Big Muddy River wetlands, Jackson Co., 2 Jul 2016 (HD)
Documentation: Photograph—2, Oakwood Bottoms, 14 May 2016 (http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist/S29868230).
Fulvous Whistling-Duck Dendrocygna bicolor
Status and abundance: Very rare visitor.
Habitat: Flooded fields, swampy wetlands, shallow lake borders.
Records and remarks: Currently four records of this southern species. Both the 1974 and 2019 Jackson County birds associated with other waterbirds in flooded fields and mudflats near the Big Muddy River. The Jefferson County birds kept to themselves and foraged in shallow water in an agricultural field flooded along the edge of Rend Lake; they were observed from the Nason waterfowl observation deck. The Crab Orchard NWR bird spent much of its time at Heron Flats, a site west of Highway 148 and south of Crab Orchard Lake.
SPRING—2, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 13-14 May 1990 (BD et al.)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 21-29 Jun 2003 (DK, KM, TM, mob)
AUTUMN—1, s.w. Jackson Co., 12-27 Aug 2019 (DM; https://ebird.org/view/checklist/S59005100)
1, s.w. Jackson Co., 24-31 Aug 1974 (Madding and Bell 1975)
Documentation: Photograph—2, Rend Lake, 13-14 May 1990 (SIU uncatalogued).
[Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus]
Status and abundance: Hypothetical.
Records and remarks: A probable escape represents the only regional record of this Asian species. Often raised domestically, so the probability that one encountered in the U.S. is an escapee is much greater than the chance it is a true vagrant. Found with other flocks of geese near agricultural fields or reservoirs.
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 22 Dec 1961 (LB)
Snow Goose Chen caerulescens
Mid-November – Late March
Status and abundance: Locally abundant migrant in the west; locally common migrant in the east. Common to abundant winter resident in the west; uncommon to common winter resident in the east.
Habitat: Grazes in large grassy fields and crop fields. Roosts at night on water so most numerous near refuges with large lakes.
Records and remarks: Huge increases in numbers in the last 20 years. Now occurs in the tens to hundreds of thousands during peak passage through the region. One bird tagged during Aug, 1974, on Wrangel Island, Siberia was present at Crab Orchard NWR on 12 Oct 1974 (Frey 1975).
AUTUMN—The first Snow Geese typically arrive during October but the largest numbers occur much later in the season. Departure dates are difficult to discern because so many spend the winter, depending on local conditions.
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 13 Aug 2005 (KM)
3,100, Crab Orchard NWR, 18 Nov 1955 (LB)
WINTER—May gather in large flocks in excellent habitat. Flocks of the size we see at some locations now are quite the spectacle. Total numbers in the region during winter and early spring may approach 500,000 in some years.
300,000, Arklands, 25 Dec 2005 (KMc)
146,000, Union Co. CA, 29 Dec 2013 (SB, PM)
SPRING—They move north early in spring but some regularly linger through March.
20,000 migrating, Ozark, Johnson Co., 13 Feb 1993 (TF)
50,000, Rend Lake, 24 Feb 2006 (KM)
2, Union Co. CA, 8 May 1971 (VK)
1, Sparta, Randolph Co., 21 May 1986 (TF)
1, Levee Rd, Union Co., 24 May 2008 (DK, MS)
Documentation: Photograph—Union Co. CA, Union Co., 1 Nov 1980 (SIU AP-15).
Ross's Goose Chen rossii
Late November - Late March
Status and abundance: Occasional to locally uncommon migrant and winter resident.
Habitat: Found in large fields, usually near reservoirs and usually with Snow Geese.
Records and remarks: Numbers have increased in the last twenty years, but this small white goose is not nearly as common as Snow Goose. With some searching of large flocks of Snow Geese, it is often possible to find a few Ross’s. Movement patterns closely follow those of Snow Geese, but Ross's Geese seem to arrive a couple weeks later during fall.
AUTUMN—1, Rend Lake, 2 Oct 1994 (TF)
2, Baldwin Lake, 3 Nov 1985 (D. Belcher, m.ob.)
WINTER—200, Arklands, 25 Dec 2005 (KMc)
53, Union Co. CA, 30 Dec 2003 (KMc, SD)
SPRING—65, Franklin Co., 12 Mar 2002 (LS)
4, Pulaski Co., 13 Apr 1996 (KM)
Documentation: Specimen—ad., Horseshoe Lake CA, Alexander Co., 26 Nov 1956 (Glen Smart collection).
Greater White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons
Mid-October – Late March
Status and abundance: Locally common migrant and winter resident. Formerly occasional migrant and rare winter resident.
Habitat: Grassy fields and agricultural areas.
Records and remarks: Numbers have increased dramatically in the last two decades. During peak migration, concentrations in the thousands occur regularly at some of the southwestern refuges. Smaller groups may linger into winter, depending on severity of weather.
AUTUMN—The first migrants tend to arrive around the middle of Oct, but sometimes a few will arrive even earlier. The majority of migrants pass south by late Nov, but some linger later and may attempt to over-winter. Large numbers during Dec may be late migrants.
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 16 Sep 1982 (JCR)
ad., Union Co. CA, 1 Oct 1972 (VK)
27, Rend Lake, 8 Oct 1990 (TF, JD)
WINTER—Some remarkable concentrations occur in favorable years and locations.
6000, Union Co. CA, 25 Jan 2003 (KM)
15000, Arklands, 25 Dec 2005 (KMc)
12000, Union Co. CA, 2 Dec 2013 (A. Gathman)
SPRING--During mild winters, spring migrants may begin arriving as early as early to mid-Jan. Numbers peak during late Jan and Feb, then decline slowly until most birds have departed by late Mar.
14, Union Co. CA, 2 Feb 1991 (TF, JD)
25, Horseshoe Lake CA, 15 Feb 1976 (BP)
1, Union Co. CA, 6 May 1972 (VK)
1, Perry Co., 19-21 May 1986 (TF)
Documentation: Photograph—19, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 6 Dec 2015 (http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist/S26171531).
Brant Branta bernicla
Status and abundance: Very rare visitor.
Habitat: Usually found with other geese grazing in fields.
Records and remarks: This "sea goose" usually associates with other geese. It can blend into a group of Canada Geese remarkably well despite its striking features.
ad., Union Co. CA, 15 Oct 1976 (D. Thornburg)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 16 Dec 1985 (TF)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 19 & 31 Dec 1963 (Montgomery and Rice 1967)
ad., Union Co. CA, 23-24 Dec 1992 (VK, m.ob.)
1, Horseshoe Lake CA, 29 Dec 1998 (SB)
1, Baldwin Lake, 30 Mar - 5 Apr 1987 (V. Hamer et al. )
2, Mermet Lake, 2 May 2012 (R. Peterson), perhaps present since mid-Apr.
Documentation: Photograph--1, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 16 Dec 1985 (SIU AP-17).
[Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis ]
Status and abundance: Hypothetical.
Records and remarks: One present at Union Co. CA, 3 Jan 1981 (VK et al.) associated with a flock of Snow Geese. This Old World species is unlikely to occur as a natural vagrant; most North American records are treated as probable escapes from captivity.
Cackling Goose Branta hutchinsii
Mid-November – Mid-March
Status and abundance: Locally uncommon migrant and winter resident.
Habitat: Reservoirs and agricultural areas, including grassy fields and pastures, essentially anywhere Canada Geese are found.
Records and remarks: Known collectively as white-cheeked geese, Cackling and Canada Goose were split into two species after detailed studies revealed assortative mating and genetic differences (Banks et al. 2004). Cackling Geese tend to be the small white-cheeked geese whereas Canada Geese tend to be the larger ones. Body sizes do overlap, however, particularly in subspecies found more regularly in western North America. In southern Illinois, Richardson’s Cackling Goose (B. h. hutchinsii) is about the same size as Mallard, pale breasted, with a small rounded (not oval) head, short neck compared with most Canada Geese, stubby bill and higher pitched call notes. In the 1980s, about 1 in 500 white-cheeked geese identified in southern Illinois were Cackling Geese (Spitzkeit and Tacha 1986). It is unclear if the ratio is similar today. Typically, but not always, associated with large flocks of Canada Geese at Arklands, Baldwin Lake, Rend Lake, Crab Orchard NWR, Horseshoe Lake CA, and Union County CA, but small groups may occur almost anywhere. Greater effort should be devoted to photographing Cackling Geese, making careful counts, and archiving records in eBird. It is possible that more than one subspecies may occur in the region.
AUTUMN—First arrivals usually occur in November, but may appear during October. Weather strongly influences movements of these geese. During mild winters many geese stay north, with few reaching southern Illinois.
WINTER—Highest counts occur on the southwestern refuges and at Rend Lake.
216, Horseshoe Lake CA, 29 Dec 2004 (EW)
105, Rend Lake, 6 Dec 2006 (KM)
SPRING--Northward movements are affected by weather and may begin during January.
275, Pomona, 21 Jan 2017 (RR)
Documentation: Photograph—16, Baldwin Lake, Randolph Co., 11 Feb 2012 (http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist/S9810372).
Canada Goose Branta canadensis
Status and abundance: Common migrant and winter resident. Uncommon summer resident.
Habitat: Reservoirs and agricultural areas, including grassy fields, pastures and residential areas near water.
Records and remarks: See Cackling Goose account for notes about identification. Amasses in large flocks at the refuges at Rend Lake, Crab Orchard Lake, Horseshoe Lake, and Union County. Smaller flocks occur throughout the region, especially during migration. Migrant and winter flocks are composed principally of two subspecies: B. c. interior (97%) and B. c. maxima (3%).
AUTUMN—The local breeding population is augmented by migrants arriving during mid- to late fall. Arrival timing and numbers depend to some degree on weather. Numbers have declined over the last twenty years, presumably because more birds are spending winter farther north. Aerial surveys of southern Illinois in the late 1990s routinely counted 200,000 to 400,000 Canada Geese. Numbers now fall between 100,000 and 200,000. Many birds arriving during fall spend all or part of the winter here with only a small percentage migrating south of Illinois. First flocks of fall arrivals normally occur by early October, but peak numbers do not move into the region until December.
513, Rend Lake, 1 Oct 1999 (KM)
WINTER—Highest counts come from aerial surveys made by the IDNR. One of the highest counts was 515,000 in the southern Illinois quota zone during the 1985-86 winter (D. Thornburg). Other counts: 12,000, Crab Orchard NWR, 12 Jan 2015 (JG)
SPRING—Timing of northward migration is influenced by weather and may begin as early as mid-January. Local breeding pairs initiate nesting before the last migrants depart making it difficult sometimes to identify departing migrants.
20,000, Sesser, Franklin Co., 1 Feb 1991 (WDR)
SUMMER--Canada Geese breed commonly throughout the region, a change since 20 years ago when smaller numbers bred locally. Now, breeding Canada Geese are the scourge of golf courses and other recreational sites where they can be rather aggressive and messy. The breeding subspecies is B. c. maxima. Bennett (1957) found 17 nests and 83 young at Crab Orchard Lake between 1949 and 1952.
6 young out of nest, Mermet Lake, 30 Apr 1994 (KM)
120, Baldwin Lake, 16 Jun 1985 (JCR)
100, Mermet Lake, 29 Jun 2003 (KM)
98, s.e. Williamson Co., 14 Jul 1985 (JCR)
Documentation: Specimen--ad. female, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 29 Jan 1955 (SIU A-20).
Mute Swan Cygnus olor
Status and abundance: Rare migrant.
Habitat: Ponds and shallow lakes.
Records and remarks: Occurs most often as a feral species accompanying barnyard geese on farm ponds and at lakes on golf courses and parks. Some individuals appear to be wild birds wandering, perhaps, from locations to our north where they are established breeders. Reports have increased since 2004. Even if it is difficult to ascertain if a bird is wild or escaped, it is useful to report observations to eBird along with details about the situation (at a farm pond, for example, or in a more natural setting).
AUTUMN—1, Crab Orchard NWR, 27 Oct 2014 (RPa)
1, Horseshoe Lake CA, 19 Dec 1989 (SB, WDR)
WINTER—7, Arrowhead Lake, Williamson Co., 8 Jan 2018 (W. Gregge; https://ebird.org/view/checklist/S41743262 )
1, se. Saline Co., 10 Jan 1994 (JD)
6, Mermet Lake, 15 Jan 1999 (FB)
SPRING—1, Union Co. CA, 9 Feb 2015 (JT)
4, Union Co. CA, 12 Feb 2009 (MML)
2 ad. (one with black & yellow neck collar), Pinckneyville, Perry Co., 11 Mar 1986 (TF)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 24 Apr 2004 (KM)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 3 May 2013 (CT)
Documentation: Photograph—Arklands, Perry Co., 27 Dec 2013 (http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist/S16191657).
Trumpeter Swan Cygnus buccinator
Status and abundance: Formerly extirpated. Now a locally uncommon migrant and winter resident. Most reports occur from December through February.
Records and remarks: With the success of reintroduction programs in northern states, migrants and over-wintering birds have begun to occur in southern Illinois again. Numbers have increased since the mid-1990s, particularly since about 2005. Given that both Trumpeter and Tundra Swans now occur in southern Illinois and are superficially quite similar, observers should use caution when identifying swans. Archiving photos in eBird is a good practice.
Formerly a migrant and winter resident, possibly bred. Audubon (1838) recorded Trumpeter Swans along the Ohio River from late October through early March, including a specific record of 2, near Little America, Pulaski Co., 15 November 1820 (Audubon 1929). Spring migrants were seen at Shawneetown, Gallatin Co., 19 March 1885 (Cooke 1888). A summer report included some at the mouth of the Kaskaskia River, Randolph Co., 4 or 5 June 1819 (Peale 1946-1947). Bent (1925) thought Trumpeter Swans outnumbered Tundra Swans in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Recent example records:
51, McClure, Alexander Co., 7 Dec 2020 (G. Hill; https://ebird.org/checklist/S77204576 )
9, New Columbia, Massac Co., 20 Dec 2003 (FB)
5, Jackson Co., 21 Jan 1995 (TF, CS)
3, Massac Co., 6 Feb 2000 (FB)
154, near DeSoto, Jackson Co., 15 Feb 2014 (JG)
8 (all with neck collars), Burning Star Mine, Jackson Co., 20 Feb 1994 (G. Smout)
2, Gallatin Co., 19 Mar 2011 (KM)
Documentation: The University of Illinois obtained a specimen from W.N. Butler of Anna in 1880 (Coale 1915), but it lacked data, so the bird may have been collected elsewhere. Photograph—19, Horseshoe Lake CA, 20 Feb 2016 (http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist/S27729952).
Tundra Swan Cygnus columbianus
Late November - Mid-February
Status and abundance: Occasional migrant and winter resident.
Habitat: Shallow water areas of lakes; sometimes roosts on ice with flocks of geese.
Records and remarks: Most migrate north of our region from Canadian and Alaskan breeding grounds to the central Atlantic coast. Generally observed most years in the southwestern counties where they occur at refuges. Fewer records from the eastern counties.
AUTUMN—A few sometimes appear during October, but most early arrivals do not arrive until November or even December. The departure dates of fall migrants is difficult to determine because many birds arriving during fall linger very late into winter.
1, Horseshoe Lake CA, 15 Oct 1979 (D. Thornburg)
3 ad. & 2 imm., Crab Orchard NWR, 13-15 Nov 1984 (JCR)
2, Union Co. CA, 4-6 Dec 1979 (D. Thornburg)
WINTER—Numbers of over-wintering birds seem to be increasing.
2, Saline Co., 18 Nov 1991-17 Jan 1992 (JD, TF)
3-5, Crab Orchard NWR, 17 Dec 1988-11 Feb 1989 (SO, WDR et al.)
1 imm., Bay City, Pope Co., 4-6 Jan 1991 (TF, JD)
6, Rend Lake, 30 Dec 1998 (LS)
19, Wolf Lake, 30 Dec 2005 (SB, m.ob.)
SPRING—Northward migration begins as soon as the first warm spell of the year arrives. Most swans have departed by end of Feb with some lingering into March.
5, Mermet Lake CA, 27 Jan-6 Feb 1992 (C. McGinnis, TF)
14, Jackson Co., 2 Feb 2007 (KM)
3, s.w. Jackson Co., 13 Feb 1983 (P. Kittle)
150, Perry Co., 17 Feb 2009 (LS)
4, Ullin, Pulaski Co., 19 Feb 1987 (SO)
1, Mermet Lake, 11 Mar 2010 (KM)
Documentation: Photograph—1, Eighteen Bottoms, Franklin Co., 8 Mar 2014 (http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist/S17364912).
[Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiaca]
Status and abundance: Hypothetical.
Records and remarks: One bird, 23 Dec 1993-20 Feb 1994, at Union County CA flew well, but was undoubtedly not of wild origin. This is a species of the African tropics. It migrates very little, so the occurrence of a bird in our area by natural vagrancy is highly unlikely. Introduced populations have become established in southern Florida and elsewhere. A small group was present at Baldwin Lake in the early 1990s (DK).
Wood Duck Aix sponsa
Status and abundance: Common migrant and summer resident. Rare to uncommon winter resident.
Habitat: Wooded creeks, flooded bottomland forest, swamps and margins of reservoirs.
Records and remarks: This is the duck most likely to be encountered in forest. Woodies also forage in open water along edges of reservoirs where fairly sizable aggregations may occur, especially during late summer and fall. In flight, their profile is distinctive because of the long, rounded tail. The distinctive call, whoo-eek, is often heard in swamps of southern Illinois.
SPRING—Migration begins as soon as creeks and rivers thaw and continues into April, but departure dates are obscured by the large breeding population. Wood Ducks do not concentrate in large numbers like many other duck species; groups of less than 50 or so birds are commonplace.
6, Union Co. CA, 19 Feb 1989 (TF, J. Hardt, WDR)
SUMMER—Because this species nests in tree cavities, largest breeding populations occur in mature bottomland forests and swamps. Many also breed at lakes where artificial nest boxes have been erected. Nesting begins as early as March and extends into August. Late summer aggregations may include dozens to a few hundred birds in optimal habitat.
158, Union Co. CA, 8 Jun 1982 (P. Kittle)
71, Mermet Lake, 23 Jun 2008 (KM)
150, Rend Lake, 13 Aug 1995 (KM)
AUTUMN—Somewhat larger concentrations are noted during fall than spring. Migrants begin arriving by late September and the majority of birds have passed through by late November. During warm Decembers, many may stay later.
200, Rend Lake, 25 Oct 1975 (BP)
WINTER—Most Wood Ducks leave southern Illinois during winter if lakes freeze, but numbers vary. Christmas Bird Count tallies reach into the hundreds in mild winters but only into the dozens in very cold winters.
97, Alexander Co., 29 Dec 2005 (KMc)
Documentation: Specimen—ad. male, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 1 Oct 1980 (SIU uncat.).
Blue-winged Teal Spatula discors
Early March - Mid-May
Early August - Late November
Status and abundance: Common migrant. Rare winter visitor. Rare summer resident.
Habitat: Marshes, mudflats, shallow lakes and ponds.
Records and remarks: This small dabbling duck forms tight flocks while in flight that twist and turn like flying shorebirds. The blue wing patches of males are conspicuous. Males lose their white facial crescent during summer and fall, which can make identification of resting birds somewhat difficult.
SPRING—Arrives later than most dabblers, well after the first spring thaw. Numbers peak during late March and April. Some regularly linger into mid-May.
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 17 Feb 2017 (E. Oswald)
12, Mermet Lake, 26 Feb 2005 (KM)
4, Carbondale, 27 Feb 1986 (WDR)
600, Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve, 3 Apr 2000 (MML)
300, Pulaski Co., 13 Apr 1995 (TF)
6, Sparta, Randolph Co., 21 May 1986 (TF)
SUMMER—Breeding records come from shallow ponds, such as strip mine ponds, where emergent vegetation is present. Some summer records are probably of non-breeding birds.
pair, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 7 Jun 1986 (WDR)
male, s.w. Jackson Co., 29 Jun 1985 (JCR)
3 ad. & 8 yg., n. Randolph Co., 3 Jul 1985 (TF, JCR)
4 ad. and 24 yg., East Cape Girardeau, Alexander Co., 7 Jul 2008 (KM)
1, Jefferson Co., 9 Jul 1994 (TF)
pair and 6 yg., West Frankfort, 29 Jul 1995 (LS)
AUTUMN—A few early migrants characteristically appear during Jul, but migrants generally do not begin arriving until Aug. Occurs in larger groups than during spring. Flocks sometimes rest in deep water of large lakes, especially during inclement weather.
eclipse male, Willard, Alexander Co., 8 Jul 1989 (WDR, J. Hardt, EW)
1, Jackson Co., 11 Jul 1976 (BP)
1, Mermet Lake, 31 Jul 2003 (KM)
3,000, Crab Orchard NWR, late Sep 1954 (LB)
450, Crab Orchard NWR, 1 Oct 1976 (BP)
3, Crab Orchard NWR, 30 Nov 1983 (JCR)
WINTER—Nearly all Blue-winged Teal have departed to their wintering grounds by 1 December. Winter sightings should be carefully documented and photographed when possible.
female, Union Co. CA, 19 Dec 1984 (VK)
2, Pulaski Co., 21 Dec 1994 (TF)
4, Union Co., 3 Jan 1987 (VK, TF, WDR)
1, Union Co. CA, 7 Jan 1986 (WDR)
1, Franklin Co., 21 Jan 1995 (LS)
Documentation: Specimen—ad. female, 6.5 miles w. of Murphysboro, Jackson Co., 11 Apr 1957 (SIU A-44).
Cinnamon Teal Spatula cyanoptera
Status and abundance: Very rare visitor.
Habitat: Occurs in shallow water with other dabbling ducks.
Records and remarks: Six records, apparently all of adult males, which are striking and distinctive.
An adult male was at Horseshoe Lake CA, 23 Mar 1970 (HDB; AFN 24:614).
Another was photographed at Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 5 Apr 1994 (TF).
Male, Lyerla Lake, Union Co. CA, 10-11 Apr 1999 (KM, m.ob.)
Male, s.w. Perry Co., 11 Apr 1999 (B. and M. Chandler)
Male, Mermet Lake, 14-15 Apr 2000 (DK, FB)
Male, Mermet Lake, 25 Mar-8 Apr 2015 (KM, m.ob.)
Documentation: Written description—male, Lyerla Lake, Union Co., 10 Apr 1999 (IORC 1999.026).
Northern Shoveler Spatula clypeata
Late August - Early May
Status and abundance: Common migrant. Uncommon winter resident.
Habitat: Marshes and shallow lakes.
Records and remarks: The spoon-shaped bill of shovelers is unmistakable. Males are boldly patterned in green, white, and chestnut when in their breeding colors, but resemble the brown plumage of females at other times. Shovelers have blue-wing patches like Blue-winged Teal, so identification of flying birds should be made with care. Shovelers often forage in social groups where they bunch together and seine the surface of water with their bills, sometimes even spinning in circles like phalaropes.
AUTUMN—Migrants arrive early, with peak numbers passing through from mid-October to mid-November. Some linger each year until freezing lakes force them to fly further south.
1, Rend Lake, 4 Aug 2007 (LH)
14, East Cape Girardeau, 9 Aug 2008 (KM, DK, MS)
120, Horseshoe Lake CA, 23 Nov 1993 (KM)
WINTER—As long as shallow water areas are unfrozen, at least a few try to overwinter each year, but groups are generally small and locally distributed.
100, Carbondale, 28 Dec 1995 (BD)
55, Crab Orchard NWR, 1-7 Jan 1989 (BD, WDR)
25, Crab Orchard NWR, 20 Jan 1989 (WDR)
SPRING—First arrivals appear soon after the first late winter thaw. Numbers peak from late Mar through the first few days of May. Some birds regularly linger later into May.
125, Horseshoe Lake CA, 8 Feb 1975 (BP)
500, Rend Lake, 20 Mar 1976 (BP)
2000, Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve, 3 Apr 2009 (MML)
620, Crab Orchard NWR, 4 Apr 2001 (KM)
100, Crab Orchard NWR, 11 May 1954 (LB)
1, Rend Lake, 14 May 1976 (BP)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 14 May 1984 (JCR)
1, s. Pope Co., 13 Jun 1996 (VK)
Documentation: Specimen—male, 3 miles e. of Carbondale, Jackson Co., 15 Apr 1957 (SIU A-378).
Gadwall Mareca strepera
Early October - Early May
Status and abundance: Common migrant. Fairly common winter resident.
Habitat: Ponds, lakes, marshes, and other shallow water areas.
Records and remarks: One of our most beautiful ducks, the male's breeding plumage can be truly appreciated only at close range. It is intricately patterned with black, gray, and white, and has chestnut wing coverts and white secondaries. The white secondary patch is a distinctive fieldmark on flying birds. Gadwalls often associate with other dabbling duck species. They are a common migrant, but flocks generally do not exceed a few hundred individuals in size.
AUTUMN—Migration of a few individuals begins in late summer but is generally not fully underway until late Sep or early Oct.
7, Rend Lake, 5 Aug 2007 (KM)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 13 Aug 1987 (TF)
female, Carbondale, 15 Aug 1988 (WDR)
195, Crab Orchard NWR, 17 Oct 1984 (JCR)
5000, Crab Orchard NWR, 16 Nov 2015 (JG)
WINTER—Present nearly every winter in good numbers as long as open water is available. Uses warm water lakes and sewage treatment ponds that do not freeze.
975, Union Co., 22 Dec 1994 (VK)
800, Rend Lake, 11 Dec 2011 (KM)
2405, Horseshoe Lake CA, 29 Dec 2006 (SB, TH)
SPRING—The influx of spring migrants is often obscured by the wintering population. Some individuals linger May.
150, Carbondale, 10 Feb 1989 (WDR)
62, Crab Orchard NWR, 21 Mar 1983 (JCR)
1500, Grassy Lake, Union Co., 29 Mar 2001 (KM)
16, Union Co. CA, 5 May 2007 (VK)
2, Crab Orchard NWR, 23 May 1983 (JCR)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 26 May 1987 (WDR)
Documentation: Specimen--ad. female, near Carrier Mills, Saline Co., 28 Oct 1955 (SIU A-37).
American Wigeon Mareca americana
Late September - Late April
Status and abundance: Fairly common migrant. Uncommon winter resident.
Habitat: Shallow lakes and ponds.
Records and remarks: Wigeon are usually found in small groups of 2 to 20 birds, although flocks may reach into the hundreds on some occasions, especially during autumn or at prime wintering locations. In flight they are easily recognized by the large white patches on the leading edges of the wings.
AUTUMN—A few arrive during Aug in some years, but a more typical arrival date include late Sep and early Oct. Numbers peak during Nov and Dec, then slowly diminish as winter sets in. Most birds depart for the winter, but many will stay as long as open, shallow water is available.
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 27 Jul 2014 (WDR)
3, Rend Lake, 14 Aug 1976 (BP)
3, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 19 Aug 1989 (TF, BD, WDR)
100, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 30 Oct 1987 (TF)
450, Baldwin Lake, 5 Dec 1981 (R. Korotev)
WINTER—Winter concentrations are usually small, but many may gather at warm-water lakes, sewage treatment ponds or other excellent habitat.
100, Baldwin Lake, all winter 1983/84 (RG)
181, Rend Lake, 16 Dec 2016 (KM)
800, Union Co. CA, 10 Jan 2010 (DK, MS)
SPRING—Arrival of the earliest migrants is obscured by over-wintering birds. Wigeon often associate with other species of dabblers; they do not usually occur in large, pure flocks.
30, Crab Orchard NWR, 7 Feb 1987 (WDR)
49, Jackson Co., 25 Mar 1984 (TF, JCR)
172, Pulaski Co., 4 Apr 2001 (KM)
4, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 9 May 1995 (TF)
2, Rend Lake, 14 May 1976 (BP)
Documentation: Specimen—ad. male, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 28 Jan 1955 (SIU uncatalogued).
Mallard Anas platyrhynchos
Status and abundance: Common migrant and winter resident. Uncommon summer resident. Present year-round. Migrants begin arriving by late Sep and leave by late Feb.
Habitat: Ponds, lakes, marshes, rivers, swamps, and flooded bottomland forest.
Records and remarks: The most numerous duck species in the region. Often domesticated, various hybrid forms and varieties can be found in parks and around farms. A Mallard x Northern Pintail hybrid was noted at Crab Orchard NWR, 1 Feb 1986 (SO).
AUTUMN—Detection of fall arrivals is obscured by a breeding population until large flocks of migrants arrive. May occur in huge flocks, especially where extensive shallow water areas exist for resting and foraging. Often forage on waste grains in agricultural fields.
98,000, Crab Orchard NWR, 27-28 Nov 1955 (LB)
9,000, Crab Orchard NWR, 30 Nov 1983 (JCR)
15,000, Rend Lake, 23 Dec 2000 (KM, R. Zoanetti)
5,000, Bay City, Pope Co., 7 Jan 1991 (TF)
WINTER—Large numbers may be present well into winter, but the majority of birds do not overwinter. The winter population depends on the severity of weather and availability of open water. Nevertheless, Mallards are commonly encountered throughout the entire region in a wide variety of wetland habitats.
SPRING—Migration begins by mid-February and extends into March.
30,000, Franklin Co., 8 Feb 2002 (LS)
SUMMER—Regularly breeds throughout the region at lakes, rivers, farm ponds, even golf courses. Egg-laying begins during March and nesting continues at least through early August.
Documentation: Specimen—ad. female, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 5 Nov 1955 (SIU A-26).
American Black Duck Anas rubripes
Late September - Early April
Status and abundance: Uncommon migrant and winter resident. Very rare summer resident.
Habitat: Shallow water areas of reservoirs and marshes.
Records and remarks: Usually associated with Mallards, but may form small single-species flocks. Far less numerous than Mallards. Numbers appear to be declining over time. Formerly common, now locally common at times, but generally uncommon. Some individuals show evidence in their plumage of hybridization with Mallards.
AUTUMN—Migration peaks late, usually in Nov and Dec, and extends into early Jan in some years.
1, Rend Lake, 24 Aug 1976 (BP)
1, Rend Lake, 24 Aug 1985 (RP)
1, East Cape Girardeau, 30 Aug 2008 (DK, TM)
50, Rend Lake, 3 Nov 1994 (TF)
WINTER—Although American Black Ducks are regularly encountered throughout the region during winter, very few large aggregations have been reported.
347, Rend Lake, 17 Dec 1994 (TF)
150, Bay City, Pope Co., 7 Jan 1991 (TF)
160, Baldwin Lake, 10 Jan 1986 (WDR)
SPRING—Northward migration begins by mid-February in most years, but the presence of a winter population obscures detection of first arrivals.
14, Crab Orchard NWR, 28 Feb 2010 (KM)
2, Rend Lake, 3 May 1988 (TF)
2, Union Co. CA, 8 May 1987 (VK)
1, Rend Lake, 18 May 1987 (TF)
SUMMER--Bennett (1952) found a nest at Crab Orchard NWR in 1952, and 4 young in 1950. These are the only breeding records for the region. Other summer sightings:
1, Union Co. CA, 15 Jun 1982 (P. Kittle)
3, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 10 Jul 1971 (VK)
female, Pulaski Co., 10 Jul 2000 (FB)
2, Union Co. CA, 17 Jul 1972 (VK, D. Hayward)
Documentation: Specimen—female, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 6 Nov 1957 (SIU A-543).
Mottled Duck Anas fulvigula
Status and abundance: Very rare visitor.
Records and remarks: Two were photographed and seen by many observers along the Levee Road west of Ware, Union Co., 2 Jul-8 Aug 2011 (DK, m.ob.). The female showed signs of hybridization (presumably with Mallard) while the male appeared to be a pure Mottled Duck. A female was photographed at Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 26 Aug 2017 (KM).
Documentation: Photograph— Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 26 Aug 2017 (KM).
Northern Pintail Anas acuta
Late September – Mid-April
Status and abundance: Fairly common migrant. Uncommon winter resident. Very rare summer visitor.
Habitat: Lakes, marshes, flooded fields.
Records and remarks: Graceful, slender ducks that may fly in V-formations when migrating high in the sky. Generally found in shallow water, but migrants may rest in deep water. Sometimes forage on waste corn in harvested fields.
AUTUMN—First fall arrivals may appear in late summer, but it is usually late Sep or early Oct before they become conspicuously present. Fall migration peaks during November and December.
1, East Cape Girardeau, 9 Aug 2008 (KM)
1, Rend Lake, 15 Aug 1976 (BP)
10, Crab Orchard NWR, 22 Aug 1970 (VK)
2,625, Union Co. CA, 30 Dec 2005 (SB)
WINTER—Like other dabbling ducks, the pintail population during winter is influenced by weather and availability of open water. Even if most lakes freeze, a few occur at warm water lakes or sewage lagoons.
200, Bay City, Pope Co., 9 Jan 1991 (TF)
30, Crab Orchard NWR, 15 Jan 1987 (WDR)
SPRING—Very early migrants, pintails may arrive as early as mid-January, but mid-February is more typical. It is one of the few duck species that is generally more numerous in spring than fall.
18,000, Franklin Co., 8 Feb 2002 (LS)
14, Crab Orchard NWR, 12 Feb 1983 (JCR)
100, Union Co. CA, 19 Feb 1989 (TF, J. Hardt, WDR)
430, Pulaski Co., 6 Mar 1995 (KM)
1, Union Co. CA, 11 May 1987 (VK)
SUMMER—female, Crab Orchard NWR, Jun 1950 (JWH)
Male, Harris Lake, Perry Co., 15 Jun 2000 (SB)
Male, Pulaski Co., 10 Jul 2000 (FB)
Male, s. Alexander Co., 12 Jul 1986 (TF, WDR)
Documentation: Specimen—male, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 19 Oct 1958 (SIU A-731).
Green-winged Teal Anas crecca
Mid-August - Mid-April
Status and abundance: Fairly common migrant. Uncommon winter resident. Very rare summer visitor.
Habitat: Mudflats and shallow water of lakes and marshes.
Records and remarks: Forms tight flocks in flight, moving quickly and erratically like shorebirds. Often walks on mudflats like shorebirds, too.
AUTUMN—A few early arrivals appear during August and September, but they do not become numerous until October. Numbers peak from mid-October to mid-November. Most have moved south by late December.
2, Carbondale, 11 Aug 1988 (WDR)
120, Rend Lake, 12 Oct 1987 (TF)
500, Crab Orchard NWR, 5 Nov 1989 (WDR)
1,000, Rend Lake, 12 Nov 1990 (TF)
700, Union Co. CA, 19 Dec 1990 (TF, WDR)
28, Crab Orchard NWR, 1 Jan 1985 (JCR)
WINTER—Will stay in the region if lakes do not freeze for too long.
275, Rend Lake, 19 Dec 1998 (KM, TD)
350, Rend Lake, 9 Jan 2006 (KM)
SPRING—Date of first arrivals depends on weather. Migrants arrive soon after the first thaw.
1,325, Union Co. CA, 4 Feb 2103 (KM)
400, Rend Lake, 20 Mar 1976 (BP)
1,500, Rend Lake, 7 Apr 1996 (BD)
1, Rend Lake, 13 May 1987 (TF)
SUMMER—male, Ward Branch, Rend Lake, 28 May 2007 (DK, TD)
male, ne. Jackson Co., 3 Jun 1999 (SB)
1, Pope Co., 17 Jul 2010 (KM, MS)
Documentation: Specimen—female, Union Co., 6 Nov 1950 (SIU A-372).
Canvasback Aythya valisineria
Early November - Early April
Status and abundance: Fairly common migrant. Uncommon winter resident. Very rare summer visitor.
Habitat: Lakes and rivers.
Records and remarks: Canvasbacks are elegant diving ducks with a distinctive profile formed by their sloping foreheads. They experienced substantial population declines, but have responded well to conservation efforts. High counts during migration are several times larger now than 20 years ago.
AUTUMN—Often form large tightly packed flocks (rafts) in the middle of large lakes where they rest and forage.
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 29 Oct 1983 (JCR)
1,000, Rend Lake, 18 Dec 1976 (MMo)
1,300, Rend Lake, 31 Dec 1975 (BP)
701, Crab Orchard NWR, 31 Dec 1977
WINTER—In many years, there are only two or three weeks between the departure of the latest fall migrants and arrival of the earliest spring migrants. During mild winters it is sometimes difficult to tell whether birds are northbound, southbound, or wintering.
14, Carbondale, 3 Jan 1997 (BD)
SPRING—A few migrants appear during the first thaw (or "false spring") of January, but migration is not typically fully underway until February.
175, Carbondale, 19 Jan 1990 (BD)
6000, Rend Lake, 8 Feb 2009 (LS)
500, Crab Orchard NWR, 20 Feb 1983 (JCR)
900, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 27 Mar 2011 (C. Dobson)
male, Union Co. CA, 11 May 1987 (VK)
1, Carbondale, 13 May 1984 (TF)
SUMMER—1, nw. Union Co., 10 Jun 1996 (VK)
male, sw. Jackson Co., 3 Jul 1973 (D. Hayward)
Documentation: Photograph—3, Carbondale, 4 Mar 2014 (http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist/S17313499).
Redhead Aythya americana
Late October - Early April
Status and abundance: Fairly common migrant. Rare winter resident. Very rare summer visitor.
Habitat: Lakes and rivers.
Records and remarks: Similar in plumage to the Canvasback, this diver has a very rounded head and two-tone black and gray bill. Small groups may mingle with Canvasbacks and scaup.
AUTUMN—Size of flocks is generally not large during fall migration. First arrivals tend to appear late in the season, usually after 20 October. A few may linger into early January, depending on winter conditions.
9, Crab Orchard NWR, 14 Oct 1983 (JCR)
31, Rend Lake, 17 Dec 2011 (KM)
60, Rend Lake, 30 Dec 1986 (WDR)
WINTER—In mild winters, small groups will be present the entire time, supplemented by migrants in late January.
50, Carbondale, 1 Jan 1995 (BD)
SPRING—Northbound migrants arrive very early, right after the first January thaw. Flock sizes during spring tend to be larger, on average, than flocks in autumn. Peak numbers pass through during March. Most have departed by 10 April, but a few typically straggle later.
2, Rend Lake, 19 Jan 1986 (SO)
115, Crab Orchard NWR, 20 Feb 1983 (JCR)
800, Carbondale, 26 Feb 1949 (RB)
250, Rend Lake, 5 Mar 1988 (TF)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 14 May 1984 (JCR)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 19 May 1970 (VK, D. Hayward)
SUMMER—male, sw. Jackson Co., 1 June 1973 (D. Hayward)
male, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 27 June 1994 (TF)
Documentation: Specimen--male, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 11 Oct 1957 (SIU A-721).
Ring-necked Duck Aythya collaris
Early October - Early May
Status and abundance: Common migrant and winter resident. Very rare summer visitor.
Habitat: Ponds, lakes, marshes, swamps, and rivers.
Records and remarks: Occurs in deep, open water of lakes and rivers with other diving ducks, and also shallow areas where stumps and standing trees are present. Frequently visits small ponds, especially those in grassland or pasture.
AUTUMN—Arrives earlier than most other diving duck species. Lingers well into winter when water conditions are favorable. The departure of migrants is difficult to detect due to the presence of wintering birds.
4, Crab Orchard NWR, 1 Oct 1984 (JCR)
625, Rend Lake, 18 Nov 1989 (BD, WDR)
500, Crab Orchard NWR, 23 Nov 1983 (JCR)
WINTER—Overwinters in moderate numbers, especially on warm-water lakes, sewage treatment ponds, and in unfrozen swamps such as Horseshoe Lake CA. Less numerous in the Till Plain and eastern counties than at the large lakes and refuges in the southwest.
12,000, Arklands, 25 Dec 2006 (KMc)
3,300, Union Co. CA, 30 Dec 2005 (HDB, KMc)
5,000, Mermet Lake, 2 Jan 2004 (KM, CL)
SPRING—Migration normally begins in mid-February. Some migrants appear during January in mild years. A few linger into May each year.
86, Horseshoe Lake CA, 25 Jan 1973 (VK)
1,400, Union Co. CA, 4 Feb 2013 (KM)
400 on 1 pond, Crab Orchard NWR, 27 Feb-1 Mar 1986 (WDR)
2,000, Rend Lake, 5 Mar 1988 (TF)
male, Carbondale, 22 May 1989 (WDR)
SUMMER—No definite evidence of breeding yet, apparently. Lingering pairs should be watched carefully for appearance of ducklings. Because Ring-necked Ducks nest in Wood Duck boxes and such boxes are common in southern Illinois, we have the potential to host a small breeding population.
2 males, Crab Orchard NWR, 20 May-30 June 1987 (WDR)
2 pairs, sw. Jackson Co., 1 June 1973 (D. Hayward)
pair, East Cape Girardeau, Alexander Co., 4 & 14 June 1975 (VK)
male, Levee Road, Union Co., 7 Jul 2010 (DK)
2 males, Rend Lake, 11 Jul 2009 (DK, MS)
male, Union Co. CA, 28 July 1990 (WDR)
female, Rend Lake, 30 Jul 2012 (KM)
Documentation: Specimen—imm. female, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 30 Oct 1957 (SIU uncatalogued).
Greater Scaup Aythya marila
Early November - Late March
Status and abundance: Uncommon migrant. Rare winter resident.
Habitat: Large lakes and rivers.
Records and remarks: Sometimes associates with the more common and very similar Lesser Scaup, but it usually gathers independently with its own species. Identification poses challenges unappreciated by many observers. Field guides often over-simplify the differences between Lesser and Greater Scaup. Look for the distinctive rounded head shape with a peak above or just ahead of the eye in Greater Scaup and the white stripe in the flight feathers extending well out into the primaries. Other field marks overlap greatly in the two species, including bill size and head sheen color. Head shape can be misleading on foraging birds because Lesser Scaup with appressed head crown feathers also have a rounded head shape. Greater Scaup are reported nearly every year now, having been absent or overlooked in some past years.
AUTUMN—First arrivals appear with the early November influx of diving ducks. They tend to be present in small, and usually irregular, numbers throughout the fall and winter.
2, Crab Orchard NWR, 31 Oct 1984 (JCR)
1, Carbondale, 5-17 Nov 1984 (TF)
60, Rend Lake, 15 Dec 2013 (DK)
1, Union Co. CA, 18 Dec 1983 (JCR)
WINTER—Wintering birds are difficult to distinguish from migrants. Fall migration may extend even into early January in some years, and northbound spring migrants may appear during late January.
1, Lake Murphysboro, 26 Dec 1953-3 Jan 1954 (RB)
2-7, Crab Orchard NWR, 24 Dec 1986-24 Jan 1987 (WDR)
female, Union Co. CA, 5 Jan 1987 (WDR)
2, Carbondale, 10-12 Jan 1985 (SO, TF)
SPRING—The appearance of small flocks from late January to early March indicates that spring migration is underway. Some small flocks appear as soon as the first patches of open water become available in January.
10, Rend Lake, 17 Jan-1 Feb 1976 (BP, MMo)
63, Crab Orchard NWR, 21-22 Jan 1989 (TF, WDR)
85, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 9 Feb 1992 (TF, JD)
92, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 10 Feb 1991 (TF, BD, WDR)
31, Crab Orchard NWR, 1 Mar 1986 (WDR)
4, Alexander Co., 25 Apr 2008 (KM, MS)
3 females, Crab Orchard NWR, 27 Apr 1985 (JCR)
female, s.w. Jackson Co., 29 Apr 1985 (K. Richmond)
2, Mermet Lake, 9 May 1999 (KM, RR, FB, VL)
Documentation: Written description—63, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 21-22 Jan 1989.
Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis
Mid-October - Late April
Status and abundance: Common migrant and winter resident. Very rare summer visitor.
Habitat: Lakes and ponds.
Records and remarks: Forms large flocks in the middle of large lakes during migration. Also occurs in smaller numbers on ponds and marshes.
AUTUMN—Numbers peak during November, then decline rapidly depending on timing of sub-freezing winter weather.
50, Rend Lake, 29 Sep 1987 (TF)
3,730, Crab Orchard NWR, 28 Oct 1984 (JCR)
3,000, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 29 Oct 1988 (J. Hardt, WDR)
4,650, Crab Orchard NWR, 4 Nov 1960 (LB)
WINTER—Present on warm-water lakes each year in variable numbers. Can be very scarce during severely cold winters.
3,100, Arklands, 25 Dec 2006 (KMc)
600, Mermet Lake, 31 Dec 2002 (KM)
128, Murphysboro CBC, 27 Dec 1948
75, Baldwin Lake, 10 Jan 1986 (WDR)
SPRING—The first northbound migrants appear early, right after the first thaw. Peak numbers occur during March. A few birds linger into May each year.
30, Rend Lake, 17 Jan 1991 (TF, JD)
1,000, Crab Orchard NWR, 30 Jan 1997 (BD)
1,000, Rend Lake, 6 Mar 1987 (TF)
3,100, Crab Orchard NWR, 12 Mar 2011 (KM)
14,000, Crab Orchard NWR, 16 Mar 1955 (LB)
6,000, Baldwin Lake, 1 Apr 2014 (SB)
18, Rend Lake, 14 May 1976 (BP)
pair, Rend Lake, 18 May 2012 (LH)
SUMMER—Rarely encountered during summer, some records may be of injured birds.
male, Union Co. CA, 3 Jun 1992 (TR, WDR)
2 males, near Gorham, Jackson Co., 20 Jun 1973 (D. Hayward)
male, Mermet Lake CA, 4 Jul 1988 (WDR)
1 (possibly crippled), Rend Lake, 16 Jul 1976 (BP)
Documentation: Specimen—male, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 23 Oct 1958 (SIU A-712).
King Eider Somateria spectabilis
Status and abundance: Very rare visitor.
Habitat: Large lakes.
Records and remarks: Two females and an immature male were harvested at Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., in November, 1973 (Harvey Pitt).
Documentation: Specimen—imm. male, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., Nov 1973 (H. Pitt private collection).
Surf Scoter Melanitta perspicillata
Mid-November - Late April
Status and abundance: Rare fall migrant. Very rare winter visitor and spring migrant.
Habitat: Large lakes.
Records and remarks: Not detected annually, but could be overlooked if birds do not stay long. Most records involve immature birds or females.
AUTUMN—Prior to 1990 most reports were clumped in the four weeks between 15 October and 15 November. Since then, most are not detected until late Nov.
5, Carbondale, 18 Oct 1989 (BD)
1, Carbondale, 21 Oct 1985 (SO)
4, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 26 Oct 1987 (TF)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 30 Oct 1957 (LB)
1, Carbondale, 6-7 Nov 1988 (WDR, m.ob.)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 11 Nov 1990 (BD)
14, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 19 Nov 1993 (TF)
1, Rend Lake, 30 Nov 1994 (TF)
WINTER—December records may be late migrants, but more records are needed to clarify the patterns.
3, Crab Orchard NWR, 2 Dec 1984 (JCR)
13, Rend Lake, 18 Dec 2002 (LS, DK, FB)
1, Union Co. CA, 22 Dec 1994 (HDB)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 19-24 Dec 1987 (TF, WDR)
SPRING—Many more spring records after 1995 than before.
1, Carbondale, 14-18 Apr 1995 (BD)
male, Carbondale, 21-26 Apr 1991 (BD)
female, Lyerla Lake, Union Co. CA, 26 Apr 2007 (KM, SB, m.ob.)
female, Mermet Lake, 5-10 May 1998 (FB)
1, Carbondale, 23-31 May 1977 (MMo)
Documentation: Photograph—Carbondale, Jackson Co., 21 Apr 1991 (TF).
White-winged Scoter Melanitta fusca
Early November - Early December
Late January - Mid-March
Status and abundance: Rare migrant.
Habitat: Lakes and large ponds.
Records and remarks: Not detected every year. The bright white patch on the secondaries helps identify this otherwise dark duck in flight, even at a long distance. Like the other two scoter species, White-winged Scoters winter on the ocean coasts and breed at high latitudes, so migration usually takes these birds far north of southern Illinois.
AUTUMN—1, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 29 Oct 1988 (TF)
1, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 3 Nov 2002 (FB)
3 adult males, Rend Lake, 11 Nov 1998 (FB)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 26 Nov 1986 (WDR)
WINTER—1, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 22 Dec 2013 (NG)
1 adult male shot by hunter, Mermet Lake, 31 Dec 2002
imm., Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 17 Jan 1992 (TF, BD, JD)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 19-25 Jan 1986 (TF)
SPRING—1, Grayville Park, White Co., 28 Jan 2014 (B. Shelby)
1-4, Crab Orchard NWR, 29 Jan-16 Feb 1971 (D. Hayward)
4, Crab Orchard NWR, 24 Feb 1986 (SO)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 25 Feb-17 Mar 1989 (BD)
female, Mermet Lake, 12 Mar-15 Apr 2008 (KM, MS)
female, Starks Rd., Saline Co., 3 Mar 2019 (R. DeVillez)
3, Crab Orchard NWR, 16 Mar 2019 (C. Taylor)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 30 Mar 2014 (JG)
Documentation: Photograph—Carbondale, Jackson Co., 13 Nov 1984 (SIU AP-24).
Black Scoter Melanitta americana
Late October – Mid-March
Status and abundance: Very rare migrant and winter visitor.
Habitat: Large lakes and ponds.
Records and remarks: This distinctive diving duck typically winters on the Atlantic and Pacific Coasts of North America. It migrates to and from the coasts well to the north of southern Illinois with many regularly passing through the Great Lakes region. Most records are from late fall and Dec.
AUTUMN—imm. male, Crab Orchard NWR, 23 Oct 1958 (SIU)
2 imm., Rend Lake, 31 Oct 1998 (FB)
female, Rend Lake, 4 Nov 1974 (H. Pitt)
female, Waltonville, Jefferson Co., 12 Nov-2 Dec 1990 (TF, m.ob.)
2, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 19 Nov 1993 (TF)
2, Crab Orchard NWR, 2 Dec 1984 (JCR)
1, Rend Lake, 5-13 Dec 1975 (BP)
1, Pope Co., 8 Dec 2000 (FB)
1, Rend Lake, 11 Dec 2008 (LS)
3, Rend Lake, 14 Dec 2002 (DK)
1, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 18 Dec 1993 (WDR)
WINTER—1, Mississippi River, Alexander Co., 29 Dec 2004 (KMc)
SPRING—1, Crab Orchard NWR, 20 Feb-4 Mar 2017 (KM, JG, DM, m.ob.)
female, Rend Lake, 21 Mar 2009 (LS)
Documentation: Specimen—imm. male, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 23 Oct 1958 (SIU A-722).
Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis
Early November - Early April
Status and abundance: Rare migrant and winter visitor.
Habitat: Large reservoirs.
Records and remarks: This diving duck sometimes associates with Common Goldeneye flocks, but just as often seems to act independently of any nearby ducks. Most records come from western portions of the region. There is apparently considerable movement even during the middle of winter, so designation of some records to particular seasons can be difficult. Most records are distributed from mid-December to mid-January suggesting that a few birds wander through the region in search of open water ahead of advancing cold weather. May occur annually, but daily checks of the larger reservoirs are probably required to find them each year.
AUTUMN—2, Crab Orchard NWR, 31 Oct 1959 (LB)
1, Rend Lake, 26 Nov 1998 (FB)
1, Horseshoe Lake CA, 17 Dec 1991 (SKR)
female, Crab Orchard NWR, 18 Dec 1983 (TF)
3 females, Rend Lake, 20 Dec 2008 (DK, LH)
WINTER—3, Rend Lake, 15 Dec 2002-5 Jan 2003 (LS, DK, KM)
pair, Crab Orchard NWR, 20 Dec 1985-4 Mar 1986 (TF, WDR)
1-2, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 31 Dec 1988-15 Jan 1989 (D. Young, m.ob.)
1, Mermet Lake, 5 Jan 2009 (KM)
female, Crab Orchard NWR, 13 Jan 1990 (BD)
SPRING--2, Crab Orchard NWR, 31 Jan 1993 (TF)
7, Baldwin Lake, 19 Feb 1983 (SR 36:5)
1, Mermet Lake, 1 Mar 2014 (KM)
1, Devil’s Kitchen Lake, 7 Mar 2014 (JG)
pair, Crab Orchard NWR, 25 Mar-2 Apr 1951 (LB)
4, Rend Lake, 26 Mar 2003 (KM, CL)
female, Crab Orchard NWR, 29 Mar 1990 (BD)
1, Grassy Lake, Union Co. CA, 1-19 Apr 2004 (KM)
1, Cypress Creek NWR, 1-9 May 1996 (KM, D. Kvernes, SB)
Documentation: Specimen—ad. female, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 10 Nov 1959 (SIU A-859).
Bufflehead Bucephala albeola
Early November - Mid-April
Status and abundance: Common migrant. Fairly common winter resident.
Habitat: Ponds and lakes.
Records and remarks: Small diving ducks, Bufflehead are usually found in small groups rarely reaching 100 birds. Males have striking black and white plumage with the head having a large white ear patch extending all the way to the back of the head. Males are superficially similar to Hooded Mergansers, but lack the black border to the white head patch, the rusty barring on the sides, and the narrow serrated bill of a merganser.
AUTUMN—First migrants usually arrive during the first few days of November, occasionally earlier. Numbers peak from mid-November to mid-December. Most fall migrants have departed the region by late December, but some regularly linger into winter if conditions are suitable.
5, Crab Orchard NWR, 30 Oct 1985 (TF)
81, Crab Orchard NWR, 30 Nov 1983 (JCR)
245, Crab Orchard NWR, 5 Dec 2016 (JG)
30, Crab Orchard NWR CBC, 17 Dec 1983
WINTER—Occurs locally in small numbers throughout winter, especially at warm-water lakes and sewage ponds.
42, Carbondale, 12 Jan 1985 (JCR)
45, Crab Orchard NWR, 23 Jan 1997 (BD)
SPRING—Some arrive after the first significant spring thaw, but migration does not peak until March. Most have departed by 15 April. Seem to use ponds, even small farm ponds, more often during spring than fall.
30, Crab Orchard NWR, 7 Feb 1987 (WDR)
2, Pyramid SP, 12 Feb 2005 (TM)
95, Crab Orchard NWR, 5 Apr 1984 (JCR)
2, Carbondale, 23 Apr 1986 (WDR)
2, Sparta, Randolph Co., 29 Apr 1986 (TF)
Documentation: Specimen—female, Carbondale, Jackson Co., 23 Nov 1937 (SIU A-1929).
Common Goldeneye Bucephala clangula
Mid-November - Early April
Status and abundance: Common migrant and winter resident.
Habitat: Large lakes, ponds, rivers.
Records and remarks: These strikingly patterned diving ducks are highly gregarious. Next to Mallards, they are the most likely duck to occur on a body of water, small or large, during winter. As they fly overhead their wings make a characteristic whirring sound. The males perform a humorous courting display for the females by suddenly extending their neck upward then quickly throwing their head back until it touches the back.
AUTUMN—Arrives late in fall, usually in relatively small numbers at first. Large flocks appear later in winter as northern lakes begin to freeze. Movement occurs all winter.
1, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 29 Oct 1988 (WDR)
15, Carbondale, 30 Oct 1970 (VK)
65, Crab Orchard NWR, 26 Nov 1986 (WDR)
160, Crab Orchard NWR CBC, 17 Dec 1983
WINTER—There are only two or three weeks during many winters when the winter goldeneye population appears to be relatively stable. At other times, there are constant arrivals and departures, which can be difficult to ascribe to a particular season.
8,000, Rend Lake, 20 Dec 2008 (DK)
200, Baldwin Lake, 2 Jan 1984 (TF)
SPRING—Because many birds stay as far north as possible during the winter, the passage of birds that wintered south of our region peaks very early. As soon as lakes begin thawing goldeneyes move in.
1,000, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 15 Jan 1989 (TF, BD, WDR)
2,200, Rend Lake, 17 Jan 1991 (TF, JD)
imm. male, McClure, 27 Apr 2007 (TM, D. Williams)
ad. male, Mermet Lake CA, 6 May 1989 (WDR)
1, Rend Lake, 23 May 2010 (TD)
SUMMER—injured female, Cache River, Alexander Co., 22 June 1973 (VK, D. Hayward)
Documentation: Specimen—ad. male, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 28 Jan 1955 (SIU A-85).
[Barrow's Goldeneye Bucephala islandica]
Status and abundance: Hypothetical.
Records and remarks: Two records from Crab Orchard NWR have been reported: 1 male, 10 Mar 1967; and 1 male, 11 Mar 1957 (George 1968). Although the records are probably correct, no documentary evidence was obtained.
Hooded Merganser Lophodytes cucullatus
Early November - Late March
Status and abundance: Common migrant. Fairly common winter resident. Rare summer resident.
Habitat: Lakes, rivers, swamps, wooded ponds and creeks.
Records and remarks: Generally the merganser that occurs in small flocks, Hooded Mergansers are very common at some localities in southern Illinois, such as Crab Orchard Lake. Outside of the breeding season, they form large, loose flocks while foraging in shallow water for small fish.
AUTUMN—First arrivals typically appear around 1 November, sometimes during the last half of October. Numbers peak during November. Because of the presence of a winter population latest departure of migrants is difficult to assess.
155, Crab Orchard NWR, 29 Oct 1988 (J. Hardt, WDR)
750, Crab Orchard NWR, 18 Nov 1989 (BD, WDR)
850, Rend Lake, 17 Dec 2005 (KM)
WINTER—At some sites, winter numbers can be as high as during migration.
800, Baldwin Lake, 8 Jan 2014 (DK)
310, Crab Orchard NWR, 10 Jan 1989 (BD, WDR)
100, Crab Orchard NWR, 24 Jan 1987 (WDR)
SPRING—Migrants arrive soon after the first thaw. Large groups are not common, because many birds are paired and ready to begin breeding. Some northbound migrants may occur as late as mid-April, but the presence of a breeding population obscures the status of sightings at that season.
13, Crab Orchard NWR, 3 Feb 1984 (JCR)
36, Crab Orchard NWR, 11 Mar 1986 (WDR)
SUMMER—Breeding begins early, usually in April, but a nest at Harris Lake, Perry Co., found with 12 eggs on 1 Mar 2012 (Joe Stephens) was initiated in mid-Feb. At least a few pairs may be double-brooded, as indicated by the sighting of a female with 2 yg from a 1st brood and 7 from a 2nd brood at Little Black Slough, Johnson Co., 24 May-7 June 1989 (TF, WDR). Other records:
11 yg., Union Co. CA, 26 May 1984 (VK)
5 yg., Massac Co., 1 June 1974 (VK)
imm., s.e. Jackson Co., 12 June 1985 (WDR)
8 yg., Union Co. CA, 15 June 1982 (P. Kittle)
imm., s.w. Jackson Co., 20 June 1973 (VK)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 3 Aug 1983 (JCR)
Documentation: Specimen—ad. female, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 2 Dec 1955 (SIU A-99).
Common Merganser Mergus merganser
Late November - Late March
Status and abundance: Common migrant and winter resident. Very rare summer visitor.
Habitat: Lakes and rivers.
Records and remarks: The most common mid-winter duck, this merganser sometimes packs by the hundreds into the last remaining patch of open water on an otherwise frozen lake. Males have bright red-orange bills and legs, and sometimes have a pinkish tint to the breast feathers. Females resemble female Red-breasted Mergansers, but have a cleaner white throat, bulkier head when viewed in profile, and a clean contrast between the reddish sides of the neck and grayish back and breast.
AUTUMN—Females and immatures arrive earliest, followed very late by males. Peak numbers may not appear until Dec or Jan. May be seen migrating during the day, especially along rivers.
8, Carbondale, 8 Nov 1986 (WDR)
1,390, Crab Orchard NWR, 30 Nov 1960 (LB)
5,000, Rend Lake, 1 Jan 1978 (BP)
WINTER—There is substantial local movement during winter in response to water and ice conditions, so determination of whether birds are wintering or migrating is difficult.
2,000, Baldwin Lake, 8 Jan 2014 (DK)
750, Crab Orchard NWR, 29 Jan 1984 (JCR)
1,000, Rend Lake, 31 Jan 2010 (KM)
SPRING—Spring migration closely follows the freeze line northward as more northerly lakes begin to thaw. Peak numbers occur very early after ice thaws then only modest numbers are recorded until the last departures in April.
1,900, Crab Orchard NWR, 13-15 Feb 1988 (WDR)
300, Rend Lake, 6 Mar 1987 (TF)
2, Crab Orchard NWR, 8 Apr 1988 (WDR)
2, Pine Hills, Union Co., 12 Apr 1987 (TF)
SUMMER—1, Rend Lake, 20 June 1986 (KM)
Documentation: Specimen—ad. male, Crab Orchard NWR, Williamson Co., 5 Feb 1957 (SIU A-93).
Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator
Mid-November - Late April
Status and abundance: Common migrant. Rare winter resident. Very rare summer visitor.
Habitat: Lakes and rivers.
Records and remarks: Closely resembles Common Merganser, but males have a rusty pattern on the chest and grayish sides, whereas females have a more diffuse blending of the rusty hood and gray neck than do female Common Mergansers. Red-breasted Mergansers appear to have a thinner neck and head, a shaggier crest, and a thinner, more straw-like bill because of the narrower base.
AUTUMN—Fall migrants arrive during November in most years. Numbers peak during December, but decline quickly later in December. A few linger into early winter if lakes do not completely freeze.
imm. female, w. Jackson Co., 8 Sep 1993 (CS, BD)
10, Crab Orchard NWR, 1 Nov 1985 (SO)
300, Crab Orchard NWR, 24 Nov 1982 (JCR)
400, along Ohio River, Hardin Co., 4 Dec 1992 (JD)
200, Rend Lake, 15 Dec 2001 (DK)
WINTER—Sometimes associates with Common Mergansers at unfrozen sections of lakes.
2 females, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 31 Dec 1988 (WDR)
female, Crab Orchard NWR, 1-5 Jan 1986 (TF, WDR)
9, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 5 Jan 1987 (TF)
male, Lake of Egypt, Williamson Co., 21 Jan 1984 (JCR)
SPRING—Migrants may arrive as early as January, soon after the first thaw. Numbers peak during March, then decline rapidly until most birds have departed by 15 Apr.
pair, Crab Orchard NWR, 22 Jan 1989 (WDR)
5, Crab Orchard NWR, 9 Feb 1986 (SO)
1,200, Rend Lake, 16 Mar 2010 (LS)
800, Crab Orchard NWR, 25 Mar 1987 (WDR)
1, Mermet Lake, 20 May 2012 (LH, VK, m.ob.)
1, Rend Lake, 25 May 1986 (TF)
SUMMER—ad. male, Little Grassy Lake, Williamson Co., 1-27 Jun 1985 (WDR, JCR)
female, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 3 Jul 1993 (TF)
Documentation: Photograph—3, Crab Orchard NWR, 13 Dec 2015 (http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist/S26266147).
Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis
Early October - Mid-April
Status and abundance: Common migrant. Uncommon winter resident. Very rare summer resident.
Habitat: Lakes and marshes.
Records and remarks: The pale cheek patch and stiff, upwardly tilted tail are distinctive fieldmarks of these small diving ducks. Large flocks occur on our bigger lakes where rafts of tightly grouped birds may rest far from shore. Smaller numbers occur on just about any body of water, although they largely avoid rivers.
AUTUMN—Fall arrivals typically follow the first cold front in early October. Numbers peak during Nov and Dec.
4, Carbondale, 12 Sep 1989 (WDR)
3, Carbondale, 30 Sep 2016 (HD)
432, Carbondale, 8 Nov 1986 (WDR)
436, Rend Lake, 18 Nov 1989 (BD, WDR)
WINTER—Can be scarce during winter, if water freezes at area lakes.
2,200, Crab Orchard NWR, 29 Dec 2013 (JG)
127, Union Co. CA, 5 Jan 1987 (WDR)
SPRING—Migrants arrive after the first Jan or Feb thaw, with peak numbers recorded during March.
6, Carbondale, 13 Feb 1984 (TF)
900, Grassy Lake, Union Co. CA, 1 Mar 1999 (KM)
340, Carbondale, 10 Mar 1986 (WDR)
3,000, Rend Lake, 16 Mar 2010 (LS)
1, Carbondale, 19 May 1987 (WDR)
10, East Cape Girardeau, 21 May 2008 (SB)
2 males, Crab Orchard NWR, 26 May 1987 (WDR)
SUMMER—The only confirmed evidence of breeding is a record of 2 broods and 1 female in a flooded wheat field in southwest Jackson Co., 18 Jul 1973 (D. Hayward). Other summer records may involve non-breeding individuals:
male, Lyerla Lake, Union Co. CA, 25 Jun 2011 (S. Burckhardt)
female, Carbondale, 19 Jul 1988 (WDR)
1, Carbondale, 23 and 25 Jul 2016 (JT)
Documentation: Specimen—male, Williamson Co., 6 Nov 1950 (SIU A-373).