Which species is characterized by a fluffy tail?

The species characterized by a fluffy tail is the wood duck. Wood ducks are known for their striking appearance, which includes a distinctive fluffy tail that fans out and has unique feather patterns. This fluffy tail is particularly noticeable during courtship displays or when they take flight, adding to their overall aesthetic appeal.

In contrast, swans, such as the mute, tundra, and trumpeter, possess long, elegant necks and typically have long, tapered tails that are not fluffy in comparison to wood ducks. This distinct feature helps differentiate the wood duck from the swan species, which are more streamlined in appearance and do not exhibit the same tail characteristics. The presence of the fluffy tail in wood ducks is a significant identifying trait that reflects their unique ecological adaptations and behaviors.