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Nigel Key Shelduck
(Slimbridge May 2017)
The Common Shelduck is a member of the duck, goose and swan family Anatidae and is classed as a Shelduck.
The Shelduck used to be called the Sheldrake and is still sometimes used to refer to male Shelduck and can also occasionally refer to the Canvasback.
The Shelduck is semi-terrestrial and spend moretime out of the water than most other ducks.
| Hear the Shelduck's Call:- |
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Conservation Status
Size
500mm to 600mm (20" to 23")
Appearance - Male
The male has a dark Green head and neck, Red bill and Knob, White breast, with a Brown band round the breast and mantle. The back and belly is White, the wings are White with Black primary feathers and the legs and feet are Pink.
Appearance - Female
The female is similar to the male except duller and slightly smaller and lacks the knob on the bill.
Habitat
Brackish Marshes and Estuaries.
Diet
Molluscs, Crustaceans, Algae, Grasses, Roots and Seeds.
Breeding Time
May
Nest
The nest is built in sand dunes, Rabbit burrows, or rough ground near the sea.
Eggs
Quantity: 7 to 12
Average size: 66mm x 48mm.
Colour: Creamy White.
Barnacle Goose
