This bird was found on May 25,2003 in a farm pond near Ellensburg, Kittitas County, WA. It was observed by myself (Scott Downes) and also by Mike Dossett independently that day. The setting is farmland, on the pond besides this bird was a pair of Greater Scaup that stayed through June. The bird was only present for one day. The back coloration is solid black, the appearance in the photo is an artifact with the lighter color. The spread wing had extensive white, and appeared typical of a Tufted Duck. There has been some opinion that this bird is a pure Tufted Duck, with an abnormal head shape; while others feel it is a Ring-necked Duck X Tufted Duck hybrid. I apologize for the poor photo, due to lens length and distance it was the best possible on that day.
I welcome comments on your thoughts of this bird, especially if you think it is a pure bird or hybrid and why.
downess@charter.net