South African Shelduck
NameSouth African Shelduck
Common NameSouth African Shelduck
Scientific NameTadorna cana
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)85
Length (cm)63.5
Weight (g)1500
Plumage DetailsMales have an ash-grey head and neck, with a rufous-brown body. Females have a white face with a black crown and nape, and a rufous-brown body. Both sexes have black primaries, a green speculum, and prominent white wing patches visible in flight.
Vocalization / CallMales emit a deep, nasal 'honk' or 'hark'. Females have a louder, more rapid 'ga-ga-ga' or 'kark-kark-kark' call, especially when alarmed.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southern Africa, primarily found in South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana.
Identifying FeaturesLarge, goose-like duck, Rufous-brown body, Sexually dimorphic head pattern (grey in male, white face with black crown/nape in female), Dark bill, White wing patches (visible in flight)
Description
The South African Shelduck is a large, goose-like duck endemic to southern Africa. Males have a distinctive grey head, while females feature a white face with a black crown and nape. Both sexes display a striking rufous-brown body plumage.
