Madagascar Pochard
NameMadagascar Pochard
Common NameMadagascar Pochard
Scientific NameAythya innotata
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)46
Weight (g)700
Plumage DetailsMales have a dark chestnut-brown head and neck, dark brown back and flanks, with a contrasting white undertail coverts and a striking white eye. Females are duller brown overall with a dark eye.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a very quiet species. Males may produce soft whistles or grunts during courtship displays, while females may give a soft, low quack.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to Madagascar, historically found on Lake Alaotra. Currently known from a very small number of remote freshwater lakes in northern Madagascar, primarily Lake Matsaborimena.
Identifying FeaturesDark brown plumage, White eye (male), White undertail, Diving behavior, Small size for a duck
Description
The Madagascar Pochard is a small, dark diving duck, with males displaying a distinctive white eye. It is an extremely rare and critically endangered species, typically found on freshwater lakes where it dives for food.
