Red-crested Pochard

Overview

The red-crested pochard (Netta rufina) is a large diving duck classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. The species name derives from Greek and Latin roots meaning 'duck' and 'golden-red' or 'ruddy'. It is somewhat migratory, with northern populations wintering further south into north Africa.

Identification

• Adult males are distinctive with a rounded orange head, red bill, black breast, white flanks, brown back, and black tail.
• Females are mainly pale brown with a darker back and crown and a whitish face.
• Males produce a wheezing 'veht' call, while females emit hoarse 'vrah-vrah-vrah' sounds.

Habitat

Breeding occurs in lowland marshes and lakes across southern Europe, extending from the steppe and semi-desert areas on the Black Sea to Central Asia and Mongolia. The species winters in the Indian subcontinent and Africa, with northern birds moving further south. In the British Isles, the population is largely the result of accidental or deliberate introductions rather than natural migration.

Diet

The bird feeds primarily by diving or dabbling, consuming aquatic plants. It typically upends for food more often than most other diving ducks.

Did you know?

The species' status in the British Isles is much confused due to numerous escapes, deliberate releases, and natural visitors, with the majority of individuals being the result of accidental and deliberate introductions.