Common Pochard
NameCommon Pochard
Common NameCommon Pochard
Scientific NameAythya ferina
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)77
Length (cm)45.5
Weight (g)900
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a reddish-brown head and neck, bright red eyes, a black breast, and a pale grey back and flanks. The bill is grey with a black tip and a distinctive pale band near the tip. The undertail coverts are black.
Vocalization / CallMales produce a soft, wheezy whistle and a harsh 'karr-karr' call. Females have a harsher 'kerr-kerr' or 'rha-rha' vocalization.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeBreeds across temperate Europe and Asia, from western Europe to eastern Siberia. Winters in southern and western Europe, North Africa, and southern Asia.
Identifying FeaturesReddish-brown head and neck (male), Bright red eyes (male), Black breast (male), Pale grey body (male), Grey bill with black tip and pale band
Description
The Common Pochard is a medium-sized diving duck with a distinctive appearance. Males feature a reddish-brown head and neck, a black breast, and a pale grey body, often seen foraging for aquatic vegetation and invertebrates by diving underwater.
