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Nigel Key White-Headed Duck
(Slimbridge May 2014)
The White-Headed Duck is a small stiff-tailed duck from Spain, North America, Western and Central Asia.
The White-Headed Duck dives underwater for food and is a reluctant flier, prefering to swim for cover if disturbed.
The White-Headed Duck is threatened by habitat loss, hunting and interbreeding with the Ruddy Duck which has rapidly spread across the UK and Europe.
| Hear the White-Headed Duck's Call:- |
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Conservation Status
Size
430mm to 480mm (17" to 19")
Appearance - Male
The male has a White head with a Black cap and neck, a Blue bill and Reddish Brown upper-parts. The tail is Black with Chestnut Brown coverts, the breast is Chestnut coloured and under-parts are Grey/Brown. The legs and feet are Grey.
Appearance - Female
The female has Grey Brown plumage, with a White face and a darker bill, cap and a cheek stripe.
Habitat
Wetlands and Freshwater Lakes with plenty of vegetation.
Diet
Pondweed, Eel Grass, Leaves, Seeds, Molluscs, Crustaceans, Aquatic Insects and Larvae.
Breeding Time
April to May.
Nest
The nest is built on a floating platform lined with down and concealed by vegetation.
Eggs
Average size: 67mm x 51mm
Quantity: 5 to 12
Colour: Creamy White.
Baer's Pochard
