Ring-necked Ducks
Although named for the chestnut band, or ring, around its neck (barely discernible to most eyes) this diving duck does have a distinct white ring around its bill. Vermont and New Hampshire are on the southern edge of the ring-necked duck’s breeding range, so while they do breed here occasionally, we’re much more apt to see them during March and April, when they are migrating further north, and again in October and November when they’re headed to southern U.S. and central America to spend the winter. (male on left, female on right in photograph)
Naturally Curious with Mary Holland 
Very timely. Reported sightings recently on pond in Northern Vermont. Precursors to loon arrivals.
March 24, 2012 at 10:21 pm
nice photo
March 25, 2012 at 12:09 am
Thank you very much.
March 25, 2012 at 2:59 am
They are adorable.
March 25, 2012 at 12:44 am
I would like to possibly raise a ringneck duck as a pet, how can i find one? Their is one behind my office here in Tampa, Florida and he hangs out with about 20-30 other Mallards. He never dives as i have seen in many videos and basically is calm and laid back like the Mallards. He has allowed me after about 30 days to get with in about 15 feet when i feed them, but i couldn’t even get his attention for the first 2 weeks. He would see me and jump in the lake and swim to the middle. Anyways, i really would like to raise one is it possible?
June 8, 2012 at 3:45 pm
I do not recommend trying to make a tame pet out of any wild animal, including ducks. Perhaps there is a breeder of ring-necked ducks in your area, though I don’t know that I have ever heard of someone raising them.
June 11, 2012 at 9:36 pm