Which type of waterfowl is known for feeding with its tail in the air while on the surface of water?

The correct answer pertains to the behavior commonly associated with the puddle duck. Puddle ducks, which include species like the mallard and American black duck, are known for their unique feeding technique known as "tipping." In this behavior, the ducks submerge their heads underwater while their tails remain elevated. This allows them to access aquatic vegetation and small invertebrates just beneath the surface without the need to dive deeply.

Puddle ducks typically prefer shallow waters, where they can forage efficiently using this tipping method, contrasting with deep-diving ducks that rely on diving to find food and sea ducks that are often adapted to marine environments. Understanding the characteristics and feeding behaviors of different waterfowl is essential for appreciating their adaptations to various habitats.