Common stiff-tail with more southerly distribution than most other ducks. Breeds on ponds, lakes and in well-vegetated marshy wetlands. In winter, often forms compact flocks, some moving to rivers and coastal bays. Often sits idle and usually swims away from trouble. In flight, has long, running take-off with tail and big feet dragged behind. Uniform upperparts, no wing bars. Rarely mixes with other species. ID: Small, chunky and punky little duck with distinctive shape: big broad head and bill. Long tail often held cocked. Females and young birds dark brown with horizontal dark cheek stripe. Winter male similar with white face lacking cheek stripe. Males molt in spring to a whole new set of colors but with the same basic ground-color pattern.