What distinctive white markings reliably identify a female Wood Duck's head pattern?

Answer

A prominent white eye-ring combined with an elongated teardrop-shaped white patch extending backward from the lower edge of the eye

While the female Wood Duck possesses a more subdued overall plumage compared to the male, specific facial markings are crucial for accurate identification. The most reliable field mark involves the area surrounding her dark eye. She exhibits a prominent white eye-ring that completely encircles the eye. Furthermore, adjacent to this, there is a characteristic, elongated white patch shaped like a teardrop that extends noticeably backward from the lower border of the eye. These bright white features stand out clearly against her generally muted, grayish-brown head coloration, serving as the key diagnostic feature separating her from other female waterfowl species.

What distinctive white markings reliably identify a female Wood Duck's head pattern?

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