Ruddy Duck in New Jersey
hunting regulations.
Hunting regulations change. The information on this page reflects what we know about species presence and hunt availability based on state agency listings. For current season dates, bag limits, weapon restrictions, tag requirements, and reporting obligations, verify directly with NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife. You are responsible for confirming current regulations before hunting.
Ruddy Duck is general season in New Jersey. The agency above sets season dates, bag limits, and zone boundaries — those change yearly. Verify before you hunt.
About the species
Ruddy ducks are small (15-18 ounce) stiff-tailed diving ducks that breed across the Western prairies and winter on coastal bays and freshwater wetlands across most of the US. Drakes in breeding plumage display chestnut bodies and bright blue bills. They're an unusual duck — they walk poorly on land and dive readily, making them more like a small grebe in habits than other ducks.
Bag limits include ruddies in the aggregate duck bag. They're not a primary waterfowl target; they decoy poorly and often run on the water rather than fly when pressured.
Other waterfowl in New Jersey
Want the picture for this species across every state? See Ruddy Duck regulations by state. Or browse every huntable species in New Jersey.