Duck Identification: Canvasback vs. Redhead

Updated: Apr. 24, 2020

One of the most common duck identification questions I get is how to tell the difference between a Canvasback and a Redhead.

When I talk to birders who don’t have a lot of experience with duck identification I’m commonly asked how to tell the difference between Canvasbacks and Redheads. With just a little practice, it’s really not too hard to tell the difference. The following two photos will show you how to identify the males of each species.

Duck Identification: Canvasback vs. Redhead — Rob Ripma From a distance, it is very obvious how white the back of a Canvasback is. Also, notice how the head has a peaked appearance with a long sloping forehead.

Rob Ripma