Ferruginous Duck
Aythya nyroca
Aves › Anseriformes › Anatidae › Aythya
Conservation status: near_threatened
The ferruginous duck, also known as the ferruginous pochard, common white-eye or white-eyed pochard, is a medium-sized diving duck native to the Palearctic. The scientific name is derived from the Ancient Greek word, αἴθυιᾰ, an unknown seabird mentioned by authors including Hesychius and Aristotle, and the Russian word, нырок, the Russian word for pochard, which occurs in the bird's Russian common name.
How To Identify
This medium to large diving duck is characterized by its striking, deep ferruginous (reddish-brown) plumage, which gives it its name. It possesses a broad body and is distinguished from many other ducks by this uniform reddish coloration combined with pale grey or whitish bills.
Habitat
It inhabits shallow freshwater lakes, marshes, and wetlands with dense aquatic vegetation across temperate and subtropical regions of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Behaviour
This duck is highly gregarious and often forms large flocks in winter, frequently associating with other duck species in shared wetland habitats.
Native Range
The ferruginous duck is native to the Palearctic.
Did You Know?
The Ferruginous Duck is one of the deepest-diving dabbling ducks, capable of plunging several meters underwater to forage for aquatic plants and invertebrates. Males perform an elaborate courtship display that includes synchronized head-throwing with females.
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