Fauna
Bird

Red-crested Pochard

Netta rufina

Also 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
Red-crested Pochard reference1 / 7
(c) Diego González Dopico, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Diego González Dopico · cc-by
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyStonewort 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
Classification
  1. FamilyAnatidae
  2. SpeciesNetta rufina
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. 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.
Related species
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