Bird · GBIF taxon 2498180
Red-crested Pochard
Netta rufinaAlso known as Red crested Pochard
Adult male Red-crested Pochards feature an unmistakable bright golden-orange head, prominent dark crest, coral-red bill, and contrasting white flanks. While technically categorized as diving ducks, they frequently dabble in shallow water or up-end along reed edges alongside surface-feeding ducks. Females construct down-lined ground nests hidden amidst dense wetland vegetation near lakes and lowland marshes.
WaterfowlDiving DuckMigratory
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Stonewort algae
- Pondweed
- Aquatic insect larvae
Predators
- Red Fox
- Marsh Harrier
- American Mink
ThreatsWetland drainage, habitat destruction, hunting, and lead ammunition poisoning
HabitatsLowland marshes, freshwater lakes, lagoons, and slow-moving rivers
Life span7–10 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyAnatidae
- SpeciesNetta rufina
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Look for striking plumage: Males show an unmistakable rusty-orange head and vibrant red bill during spring.
- Watch feeding behavior: Observe them switching between shallow diving and up-ending along reed borders.
- Use bird hides: Scan lake edges quietly to avoid flushing sensitive flocks into open water.
Frequent Companion (c) Katja Schulz, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Image unavailableClose Relative Close Relative Co-Occurring Relative
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