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Gadwall, Pair, Anus strepera

'Chalk and cheese'.

A pair of beautiful Gadwall, Anus strepera dabbling ducks in close contact, I'd love to know what he was saying to her? North Lincolnshire. The male is on the left showing his finely barred and freckled plumage and black bill in total contrast. to the female, a fine example of sexual dimorphism. Fewer than 2,000 pairs of Gadwall nest in the UK, but large numbers winter here.

 

Many thanks for visiting my Flickr pages ...Your visits, interest, comments and kindness to 'fave' my photos is very much appreciated, Steve.

 

Gadwall Notes and Information:

 

The Gadwall is a dabbling duck, feeding at the surface of shallow water by 'upending' - putting its head down and its bottom up! Only a small number of Gadwall nest in the UK, but large numbers winter here.

 

Species information:

 

Category : Waterfowl

 

Statistics:

Length: 48-54cm

Wingspan: 90cm

Weight: 700-830g

Average lifespan: 4 years

 

Conservation status:

Classified in the UK as Amber under the Birds of Conservation Concern 4: the Red List for Birds (2015). Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981.

 

When to see : January to December

 

About:

A fairly common dabbling duck found throughout the year, the gadwall is only a little smaller than a Mallard. It nests in small numbers in the UK, on freshwater lakes with lots of vegetation, but can be seen in large numbers in winter at reservoirs, lakes, flooded gravel pits and coastal wetlands.

 

How to identify:

Male Gadwalls are a grey-brown colour with a black rear end. Both males and females can be distinguished by the white patches on their wings.

 

Distribution:

Mainly found in south and eastern England, but can be seen anywhere.

 

Habitats:

FreshwaterCoastalWetlands

 

Did you know?

Gadwall can sometimes be seen following coot around. After the a coot has dived down to pick waterweed, the opportunistic Gadwall will grab some for itself TWT Notes.

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Uploaded on February 18, 2023
Taken on February 15, 2023