A fairly large and unmistakable duck frequently found around wetlands, lakes, marshes, sluggish rivers, and coastal areas. Males and females appear the same: mostly grey-brown with striking pale mottling along the flanks, a darker head, and a small shaggy crest that can be subtle. The bill and legs are dark grey. When flying, look for the prominent white patch along the rear edge of the wing. This can resemble the Flying Steamer-Duck, though that species is bulkier and seldom takes to the air. Eye colour varies by region, appearing reddish in Patagonia and more orange in the northern Andes.

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