Red-crested Pochard
NameRed-crested Pochard
Common NameRed-crested Pochard
Scientific NameNetta rufina
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)87.5
Length (cm)55
Weight (g)1150
Plumage DetailsThe male has a distinctive rounded, reddish-orange head with a paler crest, a bright red bill, black neck and breast, white flanks, and a brown back. The female is duller, with a dark brown crown and nape, pale greyish-brown cheeks, a grey bill with an orange tip, and a brown body with paler flanks.
Vocalization / CallMales have a soft, wheezy whistle or hiss, while females produce a harsh, growling 'karr' or 'krrr' sound.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across central and southern Europe and central Asia, wintering further south in parts of Africa and India.
Identifying Featuresmale's reddish-orange head, male's bright red bill, male's black breast and white flanks, female's pale greyish-brown cheeks and dark crown, diving behavior
Description
This medium-sized diving duck is known for the male's striking appearance with a large, rounded orange head and red bill. They are typically found in freshwater wetlands, often dabbling or diving for aquatic vegetation and invertebrates.
