This relatively bulky dabbling duck is distinctive in its breeding plumage. The male is unmistakable with a gray body, a large, maned head displaying green and bronze iridescence, a white throat, and buff and black undertail-coverts. It also features elongated, arched tertials. In contrast, the female and eclipse male have a fairly uniform dark brown appearance with a paler buff belly. To distinguish the female and eclipse male from other Anas species, look for the combination of a buff belly, grayish legs, and the bird’s distinctive shape: a relatively short, heavy, yet buoyant body with a rather long dark gray bill. On the breeding grounds, the male emits a short, low whistle followed by a wavering “uit-trr,” while the female produces a hoarse quack.