Wigeon, 14022020, 05 f

Wigeon,

Order ;- Anseriformes, Family ;- Anatidae, Species ;- Anas penelope,

 

Like most ducks, the Wigeon forms close flocks on water while feeding, advancing across a salt marsh or meadow in a tight-packed mass, Such a flock looks richly colourful and adds to the effect with constant loud calls, Wigeon are generally shy and fly off when approached, large numbers forming wheeling flocks circling above a marsh or heading for the safety of a reservoir, They have good reason to be wary, being the prime taret of many fowlers,

Occurrence, Breeds in N Europe and N UK, on edges of moorland pools and lakes in forests, Much more widespread in winter on estuaries and freshwater marshes, and on grassy areas surrounding reservoirs and water-filled pits,

 

Voice ;- Male has loud, exploisve, musical whistle, whee-oo; female has deep, rough, abrupt growl,

Nesting ;- In long vegetation on ground, near water, 8 or 9 eggs, 1 brood, April - July,

Feeding ;- Grazes on short grass, often in dense flocks, also feeds in shallow water, taking seeds, shoots, and roots.

 

Length ;- 45 - 51 cm ( 18 - 20 in ),

Wingspan ;- 75 - 86 cm ( 30 - 34 in ).

Weight ;- 500 - 900g ( 18 - 32 oz ),

Social ;- Dense flocks,

Lifespan ;- Up to 15 years,

Status ;- Secure,

Done