View allAll Photos Tagged Anseriformes

ORDEN: Anseriformes.

FAMILIA: Anatidae.

N. Comun: Pato jergon.

N. Cientifico: Anas georgica spinicauda.

N. Ingles: Yellow billed pintail.

Habitat: Atacama a Magallanes. Chile

 

Avocette élégante et tadorne de Belon.

Réserve de Lilleau de Niges, Ile de Ré, France

The Red-breasted Goose (Branta ruficollis) is a rare waterfowl that is breeding in the Arctic Siberian coast region and overwintering predominantly in southeastern Europe (Aves: Anseriformes: Anatidae).

 

IUCN Red List: vulnerable

 

Heidelberg Zoological Garden

Belgium.

Antwerp National Zoo.

www.zooantwerpen.be/en/

 

Antwerp Zoo (Dutch: ZOO Antwerpen) is a zoo in the centre of Antwerp, Belgium, located next to the Antwerpen-Centraal railway station. It is the oldest animal park in the country, and one of the oldest in the world, established on 21 July 1843.

Português

 

O ganso-do-egipto (Alopochen aegyptiacus) é uma ave anseriformes do grupo dos gansos. É também conhecido por ganso-do-nilo, ganso-raposo e em Angola por balandira. A sua área de distribuição inclui Europa e África. É especialmente comum a sul do Saara e vale do Nilo.

 

No século XVIII, a espécie foi introduzida na Grã-Bretanha, onde desenvolveu uma população importante. Esta espécie já colonizou também os Países Baixos, Bélgica, e Alemanha.

 

Os gansos-do-egipto evitam zonas densamente arborizadas, e podem ser normalmente encontrados em prados, relvados e em campos agrícolas. Passam a maioria do tempo em rios, lagos e terras alagadas. Podem ser encontrados até altitudes elevadas de cerca de 4000 m.

 

English

 

The Egyptian Goose (Alopochen aegyptiacus) is a member of the duck, goose and swan family Anatidae. It is in the shelduck subfamily Tadorninae, and is the only extant member of the genus Alopochen. mtDNA cytochrome b sequence data suggest that the relationships of Alopochen to Tadorna need further investigation (Sraml et al. 1996).

 

This 63-73 cm long species breeds widely in Africa except in deserts and dense forests, and is locally abundant. They are found mostly in the Nile Valley and south of the Sahara. It has also been introduced elsewhere; Great Britain and the Netherlands have self-sustaining feral populations, the former dating back to the 18th century, though only formally added to the British list in 1971. In Britain, it is found mainly in East Anglia, in parkland with lakes.

 

This is a largely terrestrial species, which will also perch readily on trees and buildings. It swims well, and in flight looks heavy, more like a goose than a duck, hence the English name.

 

This species will nest in a large variety of situations, especially in holes in mature trees in parkland. Egyptian Geese usually pair for life.

 

The sexes of this striking species are identical in plumage, though the males average slightly larger. There is a fair amount of variation in plumage tone, with some birds greyer and others browner, but this is not sex or age related.

 

Egyptian geese typically eat seeds, leaves, grasses, and plant stems. Occasionally, they will eat locusts, worms, or other small animals.

Egyptian geese were considered sacred by the ancient Egyptians, and appeared in much of their artwork.

 

The Egyptian Goose is one of the species to which the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA) applies.

 

Source: Wikipedia

[order] Anseriformes | [family] Anatidae | [latin] Mergus merganser | [UK] Goosander | [FR] Grand Harle | [DE] Gänsesäger | [ES] Serreta Grande | [IT] Smergo maggiore | [NL] Grote Zaagbek | [IRL] Síolta mhór

 

spanwidth min.: 78 cm

spanwidth max.: 94 cm

size min.: 58 cm

size max.: 68 cm

Breeding

incubation min.: 30 days

incubation max.: 32 days

fledging min.: 60 days

fledging max.: 70 days

broods 1

eggs min.: 5

eggs max.: 15

 

Status: Resident at larger lakes in Counties Wicklow and Donegal. Rare winter visitor throughout Ireland.

 

Conservation Concern: Amber-listed in Ireland, due to its small breeding population. The European population has been assessed as Secure.

 

Identification: Large, long-bodied, with a long narrow red bill ending in a hook. Swimming birds often retract their long necks. Adult males largely white with glossy green-black neck and head. Back largely black. Females with dark red-brown head, though with a white throat patch, greyish body.

 

Similar Species: Red-breasted Merganser.

 

Call: Male call is deep muffled 'krroo-krraa'.

 

Diet: Goosanders feed largely on small and medium sized fish, and occasionally larger fish such as Pike.

 

Breeding: Breed on freshwater lakes and pools and winter on large unfrozen lakes and brackish lagoons and occasionally on coastal estuaries. The most recent breeding records in Ireland come from County Wicklow, where one pair was confirmed breeding in 1994, and annual breeding has since been deemed likely, though not confirmed.

 

Wintering: Irish birds appear to be largely resident. Birds from Continental Europe can occasionally found along coastal areas in winter.

 

Where to See: Found on freshwater. Belfast Lough in County Down and Lough Tay & Dan in County Wicklow are the most regularly used wintering areas.

  

Physical characteristics

 

The long, narrow bill with serrated edges readily distinguishes mergansers from all other ducks. Common mergansers are among the largest ducks, but are less stocky than eiders and goldeneyes. In flight, they appear more elongated than other ducks, flying in trailing lines close to the water surface.

Male common mergansers have a greenish-black crested head and upper neck. The lower neck, breast, and underparts are creamy-white with a variable pink wash. They have black backs and upperwing coverts with white scapulars. The bill is red with a blackish culmen and nail. The legs and feet are deep red.

Female common mergansers have a tufted red-brown head that is clearly defined from the lower neck by a clear whitish chin. The back and sides are silver-gray and the breast and belly are white. The bill is red with a blackish culmen and nail. The legs and feet are deep red.

 

Habitat

 

Common mergansers nest in tree cavities, nest boxes, cliff crevices, and on the ground generally near clear water rivers in forested regions and mountainous terrain. They feed by diving underwater in marine and freshwater habitats.

 

Other details

 

This duck has a wide distribution in boreal and temperate regions of Eurasia and North America. It has also isolated populations in the mountainous regions of the Alps, the Caucasus and Tibet. Two populations inhabit or visit the European Union. One comprises the birds of northern and north-western Europe, wintering mainly in the Baltic Sea and around the North Sea. It amounts to about 200000 individuals, and seems stable. The birds of the British Isles are sedentary. They amount to about 5000-8000 individuals and increased during the last decades. The population of Central Europe (France, Germany) amounts to 3000 individuals. It is also sedentary and seems to be slightly increasing. A very small population is breeding in the Balkan Peninsula. It is estimated at not more than 11-32 breeding pairs, and its trends are unknown

 

Feeding

 

Common mergansers eat mainly fishes, amphibians, crustaceans, mollusks, and other invertebrates obtained by diving underwater in marine and freshwater habitats

 

Conservation

 

This species has a large range, with an estimated global Extent of Occurrence of 10,000,000 km². It has a large global population estimated to be 450,000-1,400,000 individuals (Wetlands International 2002). Global population trends have not been quantified, but the species is not believed to approach the thresholds for the population decline criterion of the IUCN Red List (i.e. declining more than 30% in ten years or three generations). For these reasons, the species is evaluated as Least Concern. [conservation status from birdlife.org]

 

Breeding

 

Common mergansers breed from Alaska, the southern Yukon, Labrador, and Newfoundland south to central California, Arizona, New Mexico, southern Chihuahua, and, east of the Rockies, to Minnesota, Michigan, New York, New England, and Nova Scotia. Common mergansers nest in tree cavities, nest boxes, cliff crevices, and on the ground generally near clear water rivers in forested regions and mountainous terrain. Female common mergansers lay an average of 9 to 12 eggs.

 

Migration

 

Migratory and partially migratory. No evidence that any Icelandic breeders emigrate. Similarly, British breeders almost entirely resident, moving short distances (mainly within 150 km) from breeding waters to lakes and sheltered estuaries. No evidence that breeders of southernmost Scandinavia, north Germany, and Poland move further than western Baltic, but those breeding central and northern Scandinavia, Finland, Baltic States, and Russia east to Pechora migrate west to Baltic and beyond to Netherlands and Britain, in smaller numbers to west France and north Spain. In late August and early September, moulting and breeding waters often deserted as flocks build up on estuaries and shallow parts of some inland lakes. Mass departures not until advent of freezing; thus major movements through Russia and Baltic October and early November. Early arrivals in North Sea countries late October and early November, but no large numbers until December, while numbers build up on Black Sea and Sea of Azov from mid-October to mid-December. Return migration from early March and, apart from stragglers, non-breeding range vacated by mid-April.

 

Rogerstown Estuary / Turvey Nature Reserve 17-03-2021

 

[order] ANSERIFORMES | [family] Anatidae | [latin] Branta bernicla | [UK] Brant Goose | [FR] Bernache cravant | [DE] Ringelgans | [ES] Barnacla de Cara Negra | [NL] Rotgans |

 

Measurements

spanwidth min.: 105 cm

spanwidth max.: 117 cm

size min.: 55 cm

size max.: 62 cm

Breeding

incubation min.: 24 days

incubation max.: 26 days

fledging min.: 36 days

fledging max.: 26 days

broods 1

eggs min.: 6

eggs max.: 10

 

Light-bellied Brent Goose

 

Branta bernicla hrota

 

Cadhan

 

This population winters almost entirely in Ireland, with small numbers in parts of Britain and France.

 

Status: Winter migrant from high-Arctic Canada. Most occur in Ireland between October and April.

 

Conservation Concern: Amber-listed as the majority winter at less than ten sites. The Irish population is also internationally significant, another amber listing criterion. The European population has been evaluated as Vulnerable as several important populations declined.

 

Identification: Small dark goose, with a black head, neck and breast, and dark-brown upperparts and pale underparts. Almost whitish flanks, and small white crescent on the upperparts of the neck visible at close range.

 

Similar Species: Dark-bellied Brent Goose, Black Brant, Barnacle Goose

 

Call: Gutteral 'rhut, rhut'

 

Diet: During the winter, it feeds mostly on eel-grass, which grows on muddy estuaries, and also on grasslands, usually when coastal supplies have been depleted at estuarine sites.

 

Breeding: Nests in small, loose colonies by coastal tundra, with pools and small inlets.

 

Wintering: Mostly found on coastal estuaries during the autumn and early winter, and also on grasslands from mid-winter, until departure for the breeding grounds begins in late April.

 

Where to See: Highest numbers (c. 30,000) are seen at Strangford Lough in Northern Ireland in October, where most congregate on arrival. Thereafter, they move to other estuarine sites. Lough Foyle in County Derry, Dublin Bay in County Dublin, Tralee Bay, Lough Gill & Akeragh Lough in County Kerry, Rogerstown Estuary in County Dublin, Wexford Harbour & Slobs in County Wexford are other well-used sites (1,000-3,500 birds).

 

Physical characteristics

 

The Brant is similar in appearance to the Canada Goose, but smaller and darker. The adult has a gray belly and breast, white rump, and black neck and head with a thin white necklace and no chin-strap.

Fast fliers with swept-back wings, Brant are usually found in a flock. They forage while wading, dabbling in shallow water, or while walking on mudflats or the shore. They display strong site-fidelity to both their wintering and nesting areas.

 

Habitat

 

Brant are almost exclusively coastal in their range and are found in shallow bays and saltwater marshes. They nest in the wet, coastal tundra of the high Arctic. Their winter habitat is closely tied to the occurrence of sea grasses and marine algae.

 

Other details

 

Branta bernicla is a rare breeder in the European Arctic, but winters mainly in coastal areas of western Europe, which accounts for less than half of its global wintering range. Its European wintering population is large (>240,000 individuals), and increased between 1970-1990. Although a few populations increased or were broadly stable during 1990-2000, key wintering populations (of the subspecies B. b. bernicla) in the United Kingdom, France and the Netherlands declined, and the species underwent a large decline (>30%) overall.

This goose is breeding on the arctic coasts of Eurasia and North America, mainly on small islets protected from polar foxes (Alopex lagopus). It winters along the temperate Atlantic and Pacific coasts. The birds visiting the European Union belong to three different populations (Scott & Rose). The first population, estimated at 20000 individuals, comprises the white-bellied birds of the race hrota, breeding in Greenland and northern Canada and wintering in Ireland. The second population, estimated at 5000 individuals, comprises the birds of the race hrota breeding on Svalbard and wintering in Denmark and north-eastern England. The third population, estimated at 300000 individuals, comprises the dark-bellied birds of the nominate race, breeding along the Russian coasts and wintering in Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, south-western England and France. All three populations have undergone important fluctuations. The nominate race has experienced a 90% decline during the 1930s following a disease of its foodplant, Zostera marina. It has started to recover since the 1950s, and the increase is still in progress. The populations of Canada and Greenland have increased since the 1960s and seem currently to be stable. The population of Svalbard dropped from about 40000-50000 to a mere 2000 at the end of the 1960s, not only because of the disease of Zostera but also because of non sustainable hunting. Since the 1970s it has recovered

 

Feeding

 

Historically, Brant fed almost exclusively on eelgrass, which is still strongly preferred when available. Now they also forage on grasslands and have been able to diversify their diet in the absence of eelgrass, although their range is still closely tied to eelgrass. Brant also eat some aquatic invertebrates.

 

Conservation

 

This species has an extremely large range, and hence does not approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the range size criterion (Extent of Occurrence 30% decline over ten years or three generations). The population size is very large, and hence does not approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the population size criterion (10% in ten years or three generations, or with a specified population structure). For these reasons the species is evaluated as Least Concern. [conservation status from birdlife.org]

 

Breeding

 

Long-term pair bonds usually form on the wintering grounds. Nesting occurs in loose colonies, on small islands in tundra ponds. The breeding range of the Brant is typically within five miles of the coast. The nest is a shallow bowl of grass and other vegetation, lined with down. The female incubates 3 to 5 eggs for 22 to 24 days. The young leave the nest within a day of hatching, and both parents continue to tend them and lead them to sources of food. During the long days of the high-Arctic summer, the young feed at all hours, and grow quickly. They fledge at 40 to 50 days, but stay with the parents through the first migration.

 

Migration

 

Single wholly migratory population. Depart Russian tundras mid-August to 1st week September. Main route west along arctic coasts to White Sea, then overland to Gulfs of Finland and Bothnia. Passage through Baltic mid-September to early October; first arrivals Denmark late September but bulk October. Some stay Denmark and western Germany through November before moving on in colder weather; others go straight to winter quarters in Netherlands, south-east England, and west France, where peak numbers December-February. Return passage begins early March; most leave England and France by mid-April. Spring gatherings in Netherlands, Denmark and western Germany until main departures in mid-May; only stragglers after mid-June.

Orden:Anseriformes

Familia:Anatidae

Subfamilia:Anatinae

Género:Amazonetta

Nombres comunes: Pato brasileño, pato cutirí o pato aliverde Alita azul, Cerceta Brasileña, Patillo, Pato cutirí

Nombre cientifico:Amazonetta brasiliensis

Nombre ingles :Brazilian Teal

Lugar de captura: El Palmar, Entre Rios, Argentina

Por: Cimarron mayor Panta

Mute Swan (Knoppsvane / Cygnus olor) from Numedalslågen, near Jernbanebrua (Kongsberg, Norway).

If your bird lens is only 300mm as my first DSLR was in 2011, the big swans are great subjects, filling the sensor with their sheer size. Being rather tame birds, they also allow you to get quite close now and then :-)

 

Canon 550D, Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6

 

The photo is part of a Mute Swan set.

 

I also have a set with a whole sequence of a: Mute Swan (Cygnus olor) landing on ice.

Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis, drake, diver, medium size seaduck

 

Order: Anseriformes

Family: Anatidae

++++++++++++++++

 

Formerly known as Oldsquaw, the Long-tailed Duck breeds in the Arctic and winters along both coasts of North America. It is distinctive among ducks in plumage, molt sequences, foraging behavior, and vocalizations. www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Long-tailed_Duck/id

 

A duck of cold northern waters. Often the most abundant bird in the high Arctic. Large flocks are often far out at sea; many spend the winter on such northern waters as Bering Sea, Hudson Bay, and Great Lakes. Flocks fly low over sea, with stiff shallow wingbeats, often tilting from side to side. Far more vocal than most ducks, and loud melodious calls of flocks can be heard from some distance. It was formerly called "Oldsquaw," not politically correct by any measure, a reference to this "talkative" behavior -- although it is the male of this species that makes most of the noise.

 

Feeding Behavior

forages by diving and swimming underwater, with wings partly opened but propelled mainly by feet. Most feeding is within 30' of surface; supposedly able to dive more than 200', deeper than any other duck.

 

image by Photo George

copyrighted: ©2014 GCheatle

All Rights Reserved

 

locator: DSC_5491

Common Goldeneye

Rio Grande, Taos County, NM

Canada Goose,

Order,- Anseriformes, Family,- Anatidae, Species,- Branta canadensis,

The Canada Goose was introduced into England from North America in the seventeenth century. Further introductions in Britain and Ireland as well as in Norway. Sweden and other European countries have resulted in the species becoming naturalised and expanding its range beyond that of the initial introductions, It is found on lakes, pools and ornamental waters especially where grassy banks offer good feeding. The nest-site is usually close to water, often at the base of a tree or on islands where present. The species is colonial, though solitary nests occur, The nest is a mound of grass, reeds and other plant material lined with down lncubation is by the female alone though the male stands guard.

The Canada Goose feeds mainly on plant matter including some aquatic plants. Most of the food is taken on land where shoots, roots, cereals, and seeds form the diet.

The British population is largely resident, though there is a strong moult-migration, particularly from Yorkshire to Invernesshire. Scandinavian breeders move to Germany and the Netherlands in winter, Some wild Canada Geese from North America in very small numbers in Ireland and west Scotland in winter.

Migration, - Main movements in mid September to November and return in late February to April,

Length, - Male - 99 cm, Female, - 94 cm,

Wing length, - Male, -49 cm, Female, -47 cm,

Weight, - Male, - 4900 g, Female, - 4400 g,

Wingspan,- 1.5 - 1.8 m

Lifesspan,- 20 - 25 years,

Status,- Localized,

 

Please visit www.GoldFeatherPhoto.com to view larger or to purchase.

 

Anseriformes - Anatidae - Oxyura - jamaicensis

 

©2009 by James R. Spitznas / AuLux, all rights reserved. No usage or reproduction allowed in any form without written consent.

 

EXPLORE #261 on 02Dec09!

Santa Cruz, California, United States of America. I could use some help on this one!

 

I love encountering birds that are not usually found in my area. I don't travel all around the world or even the country, so seeing something exotic is just fine with me.

 

Apparently I just can't be fashionable even if I tried! If this is just a mutant mallard, not an exotic gosling I still get a kick out of rarities. To me, it's especially fun to see to power birders track them down. I hope they don't mind my saying so, but watching Nicholas Levendosky, and Liam Murphy quickly pick a Little Gull out of a distant flock of Bonaparte's Gulls and then easily follow it all around the harbor as it constantly circled and landed was amazing. And just one of many events where I've seen the local birding stars pull rabbits out of hats. For me chasing down local rarities is great fun. And our local birders that join in are the really helpful and inclusive!

Canada Goose,

Order,- Anseriformes, Family,- Anatidae, Species,- Branta canadensis,

The Canada Goose was introduced into England from North America in the seventeenth century. Further introductions in Britain and Ireland as well as in Norway. Sweden and other European countries have resulted in the species becoming naturalised and expanding its range beyond that of the initial introductions, It is found on lakes, pools and ornamental waters especially where grassy banks offer good feeding. The nest-site is usually close to water, often at the base of a tree or on islands where present. The species is colonial, though solitary nests occur, The nest is a mound of grass, reeds and other plant material lined with down lncubation is by the female alone though the male stands guard.

The Canada Goose feeds mainly on plant matter including some aquatic plants. Most of the food is taken on land where shoots, roots, cereals, and seeds form the diet.

The British population is largely resident, though there is a strong moult-migration, particularly from Yorkshire to Invernesshire. Scandinavian breeders move to Germany and the Netherlands in winter, Some wild Canada Geese from North America in very small numbers in Ireland and west Scotland in winter.

Migration, - Main movements in mid September to November and return in late February to April,

Length, - Male - 99 cm, Female, - 94 cm,

Wing length, - Male, -49 cm, Female, -47 cm,

Weight, - Male, - 4900 g, Female, - 4400 g,

Wingspan,- 1.5 - 1.8 m

Lifesspan,- 20 - 25 years,

Status,- Localized,

 

[order] Anseriformes | [family] Anatidae | [latin] Anas strepera | [UK] Gadwall | [FR] Canard chipeau | [DE] Schnatterente | [ES] Ánade Friso | [IT] Canapiglia | [NL] Krakeend | [IRL] Gadual

 

spanwidth min.: 78 cm

spanwidth max.: 90 cm

size min.: 46 cm

size max.: 56 cm

Breeding

incubation min.: 24 days

incubation max.: 26 days

fledging min.: 45 days

fledging max.: 50 days

broods 1

eggs min.: 8

eggs max.: 12

 

Status: Scarce resident at wetlands mainly in the south and east of Ireland.

 

Conservation Concern: Amber-listed due to its small breeding population, as well as the localised wintering population (less than ten sites). The European population of Gadwall has been assessed as Depleted, due to a large historical decline.

 

Identification: Large, but slightly smaller than Mallard. Small white speculum prominent in adult male. Males with brown head, black stern and grey body. Females similar to Mallard, though whitish belly, small white speculum, an orange, even stripe along the cutting edge of the bill.

 

Similar Species: Mallard and other duck species.

 

Call: Males with short, croaking 'ahrk' and high-pitched whistling 'pee' in courtship. Females with quacking call similar to Mallard.

 

Diet: They feed on a mixed diet of seeds, insects and aquatic vegetation.

 

Breeding: Nest on a variety of freshwater and brackish wetlands, especially shallow lakes with abundant emergent vegetation, slow moving rivers and marshes.

 

Wintering: Localised wintering distribution at a variety of inland and coastal sites.

 

Where to See: Loughs Neagh & Beg in County Antrim, Tacumshin Lake in County Wexford, Lady's Island Lake in County Wexford, Strangford Lough in County Down and the Corofin Wetlands in County Clare are among the top sites (each supporting 80- 150 birds).

  

Physical characteristics

 

Gadwalls are medium-sized ducks characterized by a general lack of bright coloration. Males are gray-brown, with a white belly, and a black rump. In flight, a white speculum and chestnut and black portions on the wing coverts are displayed. The bill is slate-gray and the legs and feet are yellow. The male utters a short "nheck" and a low whistle. Female gadwalls are similar to males, but have a mottled brown appearance, a yellowish bill with dark spots, and a smaller white speculum. She utters a repeated "gag-ag-ag-ag-ag" higher in pitch than the mallard.

 

Habitat

 

Female gadwall nest in fields and meadows, and on islands and dikes in wetlands. They are found in reservoirs, farm ponds, and coastal fresh and brackish marshes.

 

Other details

 

A species breeding in the temperate regions of North America and Eurasia. The breeding populations of the western parts of the European Union are more or less sedentary, but they are increased in winter by migratory birds from the Baltic region. This population is totalling 30000 individuals, and seems to have increased during the last decades (Scott & Rose). The birds breeding in Greece or visiting Greece in winter belong to a more oriental population, estimated at 75000-150000 individuals but currently declining

 

Feeding

 

Aquatic vegetation makes up the majority of the gadwall's diet. As a result, they are often found feeding far from the shoreline, in deeper water than most other dabbling ducks. Gadwall up-end to feed on leafy portions of pondweeds, naiad, widgeon grass, water milfoil, and algae and the seeds of pondweeds, smartweeds, bulrush, and spike rush. They also feed on aquatic invertebrates, such as crustaceans and midges.

 

Conservation

 

This species has a large range, with an estimated global Extent of Occurrence of 10,000,000 km². It has a large global population estimated to be 3,800,000-4,400,000 individuals (Wetlands International 2002). Global population trends have not been quantified, but the species is not believed to approach the thresholds for the population decline criterion of the IUCN Red List (i.e. declining more than 30% in ten years or three generations). For these reasons, the species is evaluated as Least Concern. [conservation status from birdlife.org]

 

Breeding

 

Gadwall breed near seasonal and semi-permanent wetlands, mainly in the shortgrass, tallgrass, and mixed prairie regions of the US and Canada. Substantial numbers also breed in wetland habitats of the Great Basin. Gadwall tend to begin breeding later than most ducks. Female gadwall nest in fields and meadows, and on islands and dikes in wetlands and lay an average of 7 to 12 eggs.

 

Migration

 

Partially migratory; northernmost breeding birds descend to lower latitudes in winter, but breeders of more temperate regions mostly sedentary.

 

Greylag Goose,

Order - Anseriformes, Family - Anatidae, Species, - Anser anser,

 

Of all grey geese, the Grey lag ( the direct ancestor of the domestic goose ) most resembles the farmyard goose.

It is also the most easily seen grey goose in the UK because it has been introduced in many lowland areas where sizeable flocks are now semi-tame and resident all year round.

Winter visitors are still wild and shy.

In much of eastern and central Europe, the Greylag is naturally resident in extensive marshes,

Voice, - Loud, clattering, and honking notes like farmyard bird, ahng-ahng-ahng,kang-ank,

Nesting, - Sparsely lined ground nest, often on island; 4 - 6 eggs; 1 brood; May - June.

Feeding, - Grazes; plucks-grass and cereal shoots, digs for roots and waste grain,

 

Length, - 74 - 84 cm ( 29 - 33 in ),

Wingspan, - 1.49 - 1.68 m ( 5f - 5f 6in ),

Weight - 2.9 - 3.7kg,

Lifespan, - 15 - 20 years,

Social - Flocks,

Status, - Secure,.

Aves

Anseriformes

Anatidae

Anserinae

Cygnus buccinators, Trumpeter Swan

 

Nyack Beach State Park

Rockland Co., NY

Long-Tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis)

 

[order] Anseriformes | [family] Anatidae | [latin] Clangula hyemalis | [UK] Long-Tailed Duck | [FR] Harelde kakawi | [DE] Eisente | [ES] Havelda | [IT] Moretta codona | [NL] Ijseend

 

Measurements

spanwidth min.: 70 cm

spanwidth max.: 74 cm

size min.: 38 cm

size max.: 58 cm

Breeding

incubation min.: 24 days

incubation max.: 29 days

fledging min.: 35 days

fledging max.: 50 days

broods 1

eggs min.: 6

eggs max.: 10

 

Physical characteristics

 

The Long-tailed Duck is a distinctive sea duck with a short bill and heavy body. The short, pointed, all-dark wings of the Long-tailed Duck are evident in all sexes and plumages. In breeding plumage, the male has a long, black tail-plume, a white rump and belly, and black breast. The head and back are black, with brown shoulders and a white patch around the eye. In winter the brown on the back is replaced by white, and the head is white with a gray cheek-patch. In spring, the female is gray with a white rump, and white around the eye and at the nape of the neck. In winter, she has a white face with dark crown and cheek-patch. The juvenile is similar to the female--gray with white, although it has more white on its face than the female.

Long-tailed Ducks dive and swim under water, and, while they propel themselves with their feet like other ducks, their wings are sometimes partly opened under water. Most feeding is done within 30 feet of the surface, but they are capable of diving more than 200 feet below the surface. Long-tailed Ducks fly low with stiff and shallow wing-beats, often tilting from side to side.

 

Habitat

 

Long-tailed Ducks breed in shallow tundra ponds and lakes. During other seasons, Long-tailed Ducks can be found on the ocean over sandy substrates. They prefer sheltered water, but can be found on the open ocean as well.

 

Other details

 

Clangula hyemalis is a widespread breeder in northernmost Europe, which accounts for less than half of its global breeding range. Its European breeding population is large (>690,000 pairs), and was stable between 1970-1990. Although trends in Greenland, Iceland and Sweden during 1990-2000 were unknown, populations were stable elsewhere-including in the Russian stronghold-and the species probably remained stable overall.

This duck has a wide distribution at high latitudes in Eurasia and North America. Most of the birds inhabiting northern Europe are wintering in the Baltic Sea. This population is estimated at 4.5 millions of individuals, but only a few thousand reach the Wadden Sea and only stragglers are recorded more south, especially in hard winters. The birds of Greenland and Iceland reach the west of the British islands. This population is estimated at 150000 individuals. Both populations seems stable (Scott & Rose), despite the fact that some decrease has been reported from Scandinavia and that the bird is sensitive to oil pollution of the s

 

Feeding

 

For Long-tailed Ducks at sea, mollusks and crustaceans are the main source of food. In summer, aquatic insects, other aquatic invertebrates, and some plant material are eaten.

 

Conservation

 

This species has a large range, with an estimated global Extent of Occurrence of 100,000-1,000,000 km². It has a large global population estimated to be 7,200,000-7,800,000 individuals (Wetlands International 2002). Global population trends have not been quantified, but the species is not believed to approach the thresholds for the population decline criterion of the IUCN Red List (i.e. declining more than 30% in ten years or three generations). For these reasons, the species is evaluated as Least Concern. [conservation status from birdlife.org]

 

Breeding

 

Most female Long-tailed Ducks first breed at the age of two. Pair bonds are established in the winter, or during the spring migration, and last until incubation begins. The nest is located on dry ground close to the water, often hidden in the undergrowth or among rocks. It is a depression lined with plant material and great quantities of down that the female adds to the nest after she begins laying. She usually lays from 6 to 11 eggs and incubates them for 24 to 29 days. Shortly after hatching, the young leave the nest and can swim and dive well. The female tends them and may dislodge food items for them when she is diving, but they feed themselves. They first fly at 35 to 40 days.

 

Migration

 

Migratory and partially migratory. winters mainly offshore between 55 degrees North and 75 degrees North and in Baltic Sea. Icelandic breeders are partial migrants, some remaining to winter around coasts, others moving to southern Greenland. Baltic Sea appears to be the most important wintering area in west Palearctic. Though extensive moult migration occurs in east Siberia, in west Palearctic males moult on coasts and lakes close to breeding areas either solitarily or in small flocks. Movements beginning late June to early July. Large flocks build up August-September as females and young desert breeding areas. Some reach south Sweden mid-September, but overland passage from White Sea to Gulf of Finland mostly 1st half October. Main influx to west Baltic November or December. Return movement North and Baltic Seas from mid-March, with major overland passage towards White Sea in May. They return to breeding areas dependent on thaw, late April or early May in Iceland, mid-May to mid-June in Russian tundras.

 

------------------------------------------

 

Greater Scaup (Aythya marila)

 

[order] Anseriformes | [family] Anatidae | [latin] Aythya marila | [UK] Greater Scaup | [FR] Fuligule milouinan | [DE] Bergente | [ES] Porrón Bastardo | [IT] Moretta grigia | [NL] Topper

 

Measurements

spanwidth min.: 71 cm

spanwidth max.: 80 cm

size min.: 42 cm

size max.: 51 cm

Breeding

incubation min.: 26 days

incubation max.: 28 days

fledging min.: 40 days

fledging max.: 45 days

broods 1

eggs min.: 8

eggs max.: 13

 

Physical characteristics

 

The male Greater Scaup has white flanks, a black rump and breast, and barred gray back. He has a green-black iridescent head and light gray-blue bill. The adult in its second year has a yellow eye. The male in non-breeding plumage has a black head and breast, brown body, and black rump. The female is brownish overall, also with a yellow eye after the age of two. The female also has a white semi-circle at the base of the beak. The Greater and Lesser Scaup can be difficult to distinguish in the field. The Greater Scaup averages about 10% longer and 20% heavier than the Lesser Scaup. The Lesser Scaup has a peaked, angular head that the Greater Scaup lacks. The Greater Scaup has a larger bill with a more pronounced nail (tip of the bill) than the Lesser Scaup. Seen in flight, the white on the wings of the Greater Scaup extends into the primaries, where it is gray on the Lesser Scaup. Habitat, range, and season may help differentiate between the two species, as well as using a field guide and working with experienced observers.

Outside of the breeding season, Greater Scaup form large flocks or rafts, numbering in the thousands. In tidal waters, they tend to face up-current. While individuals may drift downstream, birds from the back of the flock fly to the front, maintaining the raft in the same position. A diver, the Greater Scaup catches its food under water, but eats it on the surface. Occasionally scaups forage at or near the water's surface as well.

 

Habitat

 

The Greater Scaup is the more northerly of the two species of North American Scaup. In the summer, they breed on marshy, lowland tundra at the northern limits of the boreal forest. In winter, they gather in coastal bays, lagoons, and estuaries, with some wintering on inland lakes. While the Greater Scaup does overlap with the Lesser Scaup in winter, it tends to frequent more open, exposed areas.

 

Other details

 

Aythya marila breeds in northern Europe, and winters mainly in north-western Europe and the Black Sea, which together account for less than half of its global wintering range. Its European wintering population is large (>120,000 individuals), and was stable between 1970-1990. Although most wintering populations were broadly stable during 1990-2000, there were substantial declines in north-western Europe, and the species probably underwent a very large decline (>50%) overall.

This duck has a wide distribution at high latitudes in Eurasia and North America. In Europe its mainly marine wintering area is reaching the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, but most birds winter in the Baltic and North Seas. This north-western European population is estimated at 310000 individuals. A decline has been recorded in the British Isles and in Denmark; an increase in the Netherlands and Germany. Its global trends are unknown

 

Feeding

 

Mollusks and plant material are both important components of the Greater Scaup's diet. In the summer, aquatic insects and crustaceans are also eaten.

 

Conservation

 

This species has a large range, with an estimated global Extent of Occurrence of 1,000,000-10,000,000 km². It has a large global population estimated to be 1,100,000-1,400,000 individuals (Wetlands International 2002). Global population trends have not been quantified, but the species is not believed to approach the thresholds for the population decline criterion of the IUCN Red List (i.e. declining more than 30% in ten years or three generations). For these reasons, the species is evaluated as Least Concern. [conservation status from birdlife.org]

 

Breeding

 

While Greater Scaup may nest at one year of age, they are more likely to begin breeding at the age of two. Pair formation begins in late winter or early spring on the wintering grounds and during migration back to the breeding grounds. The pair bond lasts until the female begins to incubate, and then the male leaves. Nests are located close to the water on an island, shoreline, or floating mat of vegetation, often close together in loose colonies. The female makes a shallow depression lined with grass. During incubation, the female adds down to the nest. Incubation of the 6 to 9 eggs lasts for 23 to 28 days. Soon after they hatch, the female leads the young to the water. Multiple broods may form small crèches and be tended by one or more females. The young can swim and find their own food immediately, but can't fly until about 40 to 45 days old

 

Migration

 

Migratory, winters along coasts of North America (Atlantic and Pacific), NW Europe, Black and Caspian Seas and Japan, Yellow and East China seas. At some localities (e.g. Central Europe, Great lakes of North America) also inland. Males to remain much further N than females or immatures

 

[order] ANSERIFORMES | [family] Anatidae | [latin] Anser caerulescens | [UK] Snow Goose | [FR] Oie de neiges | [DE] Schneegans | [ES] Ganso Azul | [NL] Sneeuwgans | [IRE] Gé Shneachta

 

Status: A rare winter visitor from October to March

 

Conservation Concern: Green-listed in Ireland. The European population is considered to be Secure.

 

Identification: Slightly smaller than Greylag Goose and more compact than that species. Two phases (types) can occur in Ireland, the most typical and obvious being the white-phase. This appears like an all-white Greylag Goose, except for a large black patch on the wings (primary feathers). Blue-phase Snow Geese are markedly different, with only the head and part of the neck being white. The rest of the body is dark brown. Escaped Domestic Geese may resemble either type of Snow Goose, but generally be distinguished by their size.

 

Similar Species: Domestic Goose, Greylag Goose

 

Call: Usually silent when seen in Ireland.

 

Diet: Snow Geese in Ireland feed with other geese on grasses and cereal stubble.

 

Breeding: Breeds in the taiga of Alaska, Canada and increasingly in Greenland.

 

Wintering: Winters in large flocks along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of the United States. One or two individuals may associate with Greenland White-fronted Geese by mistake and end up wintering in Ireland. This species is also regularly kept in bird collections and escaped individuals can be seen at all times of the year.

 

Where to See: A rare winter visitor almost always associating with other geese at lowland sites. Snow Geese have been regularly sighted at the North Slob in County Wexford

Shovler duck (Anas clypeata) standing on the sand.

African Pygmy-goose

Nettapus auritus

 

Location: Moremi, Botswana

Date: 7th. August 2011

 

Distribution: avibase.bsc-eoc.org/species.jsp?lang=EN&avibaseid=EC7...

 

690V3281

  

Ring-necked Duck

Albuquerque, NM

Grange Castle Business Park, Kilmahuddrick Co. Dublin

19-03-2020

 

[order] Anseriformes | [family] Anatidae | [latin] Netta rufina | [UK] Red-crested Pochard | [FR] Nette rousse | [DE] Kolbenente | [ES] Pato Colorado | [IT] Fistione turco | [NL] Krooneend

 

Measurements

spanwidth min.: 85 cm

spanwidth max.: 90 cm

size min.: 53 cm

size max.: 57 cm

Breeding

incubation min.: 26 days

incubation max.: 28 days

fledging min.: 45 days

fledging max.: 50 days

broods 1

eggs min.: 7

eggs max.: 11

   

[order] Anseriformes | [family] Anatidae | [latin] Anser anser | [UK] Greylag Goose | [FR] Oie cendrée | [DE] Graugans | [ES] Ánsar Común | [IT] Oca selvatica | [NL] Grauwe Gans | [IRL] Gé Ghlas

 

spanwidth min.: 149 cm

spanwidth max.: 168 cm

size min.: 74 cm

size max.: 84 cm

Breeding

incubation min.: 27 days

incubation max.: 28 days

fledging min.: 50 days

fledging max.: 60 days

broods 1

eggs min.: 4

eggs max.: 8

 

Status: Winter migrant, with Icelandic birds between November & April. Feral birds are present year round.

 

Conservation Concern: Amber-listed in Ireland as the majority of the population winters at less than ten sites. The European population is considered to be Secure.

 

Identification: Large bulky grey goose, with pinkish-orange bill and dull pink legs. Plumage is plain grey/brown. Some with thin white rim at the base of the bill, and many with dark marks on the belly.

 

Similar Species: Other goose species, especially Greenland White-fronted and Pink-footed.

 

Call: Nasal cackling noise, trisyllabic, with the first higher pitched.

 

Diet: Greylag Geese used to concentrate more on estuaries, where they fed on the roots of rushes and sedges. Arable farming in Scotland increased during the post- war years, and appeared to coincide with increasing numbers of Greylag Geese switching to feed on arable farmland. Greylag Geese currently feed mostly on cereal stubble and grassland in their wintering areas.

 

Breeding: Breeds by lakes and reservoirs, with the nest site often close to water and hidden in reeds or other waterside vegetation. Nests in pairs, but locally colonially.

 

Wintering: The Icelandic population winters in Scotland and Ireland, occurring mostly at coastal sites. Highly gregarious.

 

Where to See: Icelandic birds occur at seven main locations where they are mostly seen in large numbers (up to 3,000, but usually in low hundreds) feeding on grasslands. The feral population is more widespread, occurring usually in smaller numbers, usually less than 10, throughout the country. Lough Swilly in County Donegal, Braganstown in County Louth, Poulaphouca Reservoir in County Wicklow, Mountseskin/Gortlum in County Dublin and the River Suir Lower in County Waterford are among the top sites. There are many other sites that support Greylag Geese of feral origin. Their range is much more widespread. Large numbers occur at Lough Neagh and Strangford Lough.

  

Physical characteristics

 

Different from outer geese basically uniform coloration of body and bill, his bill less black marks, sometimes black spots or blotches present on belly. Juvenile generally less strongly patterned dorsally and overall has more mottled plumage. Subspecies rubrirostris has pink bill and paler plumage.

 

Habitat

 

Generally associated with water in open country, often with fringe vegetation or near grasslands. Winters in swamps, lakes and coastal lagoons, or on farmland in open country.

 

Other details

 

This goose inhabits the temperate and boreal regions of Europe and Asia. The birds visiting the European Union belong more or less to five distinct populations (Scott & Rose). The first population comprises the sedentary birds of north-western Scotland. It has nearly doubled during the last 20 years and is currently amounting to 5250 individuals. The second population is breeding in Iceland and wintering in Scotland, northern England and Ireland. It increased from 25000 in 1950 to 100000 currently. The third population is breeding in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Western Germany the Netherlands and Belgium, and wintering from the Netherlands to Spain and Morocco. From 30000 at the end of the 1960's, it increased to 200000 currently. The fourth population is breeding in north-eastern Sweden, Finland, the Baltic States and Central Europe, transiting in Italy and wintering in Tunisia and Algeria. It is estimated at 20000 individuals and seems to be quite stable. The fifth population is breeding in the Black Sea regions and Turkey. It reaches northern Greece, and can be estimated at 25000 individuals. Its trends are not well known, but it is probably declining

 

Feeding

 

Various plants: roots, leaves, stems and seeds also fruits, grain, potatoes and sprouting cereals in winter,. Forages mostly by grazing on dry land, but also on water, where it sometimes upends.

 

Conservation

 

This species has a large range, with an estimated global Extent of Occurrence of 1,000,000-10,000,000 km². It has a large global population estimated to be 920,000-970,000 individuals (Wetlands International 2002). Global population trends have not been quantified, but the species is not believed to approach the thresholds for the population decline criterion of the IUCN Red List (i.e. declining more than 30% in ten years or three generations). For these reasons, the species is evaluated as Least Concern. [conservation status from birdlife.org]

 

Breeding

 

Eggs are layed form March-April in loose colonies. Shallow nest of reed stems and grass, lined with down, among reedbeds, on ground or in trees. The Clutch size is 4-6 eggs and incubation lasts 27-28 days. Chicks have brownish olive down yellow below. This Goose reaches sexual maturity in 3 years. Although greylag geese Anser anser establish long-term monogamous pairbonds, some of the existing pairs do split up (divorce) and new pairs are formed during the annual spring mating period.

During the incubation period the gander stays close to the nest, and when the goslings a few days old leave the nest they are cared for by both parents, at this time small family groups may be formed. The gander will aggressively protect goslings and nest and an intruder will be met by hissing and threatening attitudes or may be attacked.

 

[order] Anseriformes | [family] Anatidae | [latin] Anas strepera | [UK] Gadwall | [FR] Canard chipeau | [DE] Schnatterente | [ES] Ánade Friso | [IT] Canapiglia | [NL] Krakeend | [IRL] Gadual

 

spanwidth min.: 78 cm

spanwidth max.: 90 cm

size min.: 46 cm

size max.: 56 cm

Breeding

incubation min.: 24 days

incubation max.: 26 days

fledging min.: 45 days

fledging max.: 50 days

broods 1

eggs min.: 8

eggs max.: 12

 

Status: Scarce resident at wetlands mainly in the south and east of Ireland.

 

Conservation Concern: Amber-listed due to its small breeding population, as well as the localised wintering population (less than ten sites). The European population of Gadwall has been assessed as Depleted, due to a large historical decline.

 

Identification: Large, but slightly smaller than Mallard. Small white speculum prominent in adult male. Males with brown head, black stern and grey body. Females similar to Mallard, though whitish belly, small white speculum, an orange, even stripe along the cutting edge of the bill.

 

Similar Species: Mallard and other duck species.

 

Call: Males with short, croaking 'ahrk' and high-pitched whistling 'pee' in courtship. Females with quacking call similar to Mallard.

 

Diet: They feed on a mixed diet of seeds, insects and aquatic vegetation.

 

Breeding: Nest on a variety of freshwater and brackish wetlands, especially shallow lakes with abundant emergent vegetation, slow moving rivers and marshes.

 

Wintering: Localised wintering distribution at a variety of inland and coastal sites.

 

Where to See: Loughs Neagh & Beg in County Antrim, Tacumshin Lake in County Wexford, Lady's Island Lake in County Wexford, Strangford Lough in County Down and the Corofin Wetlands in County Clare are among the top sites (each supporting 80- 150 birds).

  

Physical characteristics

 

Gadwalls are medium-sized ducks characterized by a general lack of bright coloration. Males are gray-brown, with a white belly, and a black rump. In flight, a white speculum and chestnut and black portions on the wing coverts are displayed. The bill is slate-gray and the legs and feet are yellow. The male utters a short "nheck" and a low whistle. Female gadwalls are similar to males, but have a mottled brown appearance, a yellowish bill with dark spots, and a smaller white speculum. She utters a repeated "gag-ag-ag-ag-ag" higher in pitch than the mallard.

 

Habitat

 

Female gadwall nest in fields and meadows, and on islands and dikes in wetlands. They are found in reservoirs, farm ponds, and coastal fresh and brackish marshes.

 

Other details

 

A species breeding in the temperate regions of North America and Eurasia. The breeding populations of the western parts of the European Union are more or less sedentary, but they are increased in winter by migratory birds from the Baltic region. This population is totalling 30000 individuals, and seems to have increased during the last decades (Scott & Rose). The birds breeding in Greece or visiting Greece in winter belong to a more oriental population, estimated at 75000-150000 individuals but currently declining

 

Feeding

 

Aquatic vegetation makes up the majority of the gadwall's diet. As a result, they are often found feeding far from the shoreline, in deeper water than most other dabbling ducks. Gadwall up-end to feed on leafy portions of pondweeds, naiad, widgeon grass, water milfoil, and algae and the seeds of pondweeds, smartweeds, bulrush, and spike rush. They also feed on aquatic invertebrates, such as crustaceans and midges.

 

Breeding

 

Gadwall breed near seasonal and semi-permanent wetlands, mainly in the shortgrass, tallgrass, and mixed prairie regions of the US and Canada. Substantial numbers also breed in wetland habitats of the Great Basin. Gadwall tend to begin breeding later than most ducks. Female gadwall nest in fields and meadows, and on islands and dikes in wetlands and lay an average of 7 to 12 eggs.

 

Migration

 

Partially migratory; northernmost breeding birds descend to lower latitudes in winter, but breeders of more temperate regions mostly sedentary.

 

Harlequin Duck

Yellowstone National Park, WY

This juvenile Canadian Goose was feeding while Mum and dad kept guard over the family.

It's a close contest.

[order] Anseriformes | [family] Anatidae | [latin] Mergus merganser | [UK] Goosander | [FR] Grand Harle | [DE] Gänsesäger | [ES] Serreta Grande | [IT] Smergo maggiore | [NL] Grote Zaagbek | [IRL] Síolta mhór

 

spanwidth min.: 78 cm

spanwidth max.: 94 cm

size min.: 58 cm

size max.: 68 cm

Breeding

incubation min.: 30 days

incubation max.: 32 days

fledging min.: 60 days

fledging max.: 70 days

broods 1

eggs min.: 5

eggs max.: 15

 

Status: Resident at larger lakes in Counties Wicklow and Donegal. Rare winter visitor throughout Ireland.

 

Conservation Concern: Amber-listed in Ireland, due to its small breeding population. The European population has been assessed as Secure.

 

Identification: Large, long-bodied, with a long narrow red bill ending in a hook. Swimming birds often retract their long necks. Adult males largely white with glossy green-black neck and head. Back largely black. Females with dark red-brown head, though with a white throat patch, greyish body.

 

Similar Species: Red-breasted Merganser.

 

Call: Male call is deep muffled 'krroo-krraa'.

 

Diet: Goosanders feed largely on small and medium sized fish, and occasionally larger fish such as Pike.

 

Breeding: Breed on freshwater lakes and pools and winter on large unfrozen lakes and brackish lagoons and occasionally on coastal estuaries. The most recent breeding records in Ireland come from County Wicklow, where one pair was confirmed breeding in 1994, and annual breeding has since been deemed likely, though not confirmed.

 

Wintering: Irish birds appear to be largely resident. Birds from Continental Europe can occasionally found along coastal areas in winter.

 

Where to See: Found on freshwater. Belfast Lough in County Down and Lough Tay & Dan in County Wicklow are the most regularly used wintering areas.

  

Physical characteristics

 

The long, narrow bill with serrated edges readily distinguishes mergansers from all other ducks. Common mergansers are among the largest ducks, but are less stocky than eiders and goldeneyes. In flight, they appear more elongated than other ducks, flying in trailing lines close to the water surface.

Male common mergansers have a greenish-black crested head and upper neck. The lower neck, breast, and underparts are creamy-white with a variable pink wash. They have black backs and upperwing coverts with white scapulars. The bill is red with a blackish culmen and nail. The legs and feet are deep red.

Female common mergansers have a tufted red-brown head that is clearly defined from the lower neck by a clear whitish chin. The back and sides are silver-gray and the breast and belly are white. The bill is red with a blackish culmen and nail. The legs and feet are deep red.

 

Habitat

 

Common mergansers nest in tree cavities, nest boxes, cliff crevices, and on the ground generally near clear water rivers in forested regions and mountainous terrain. They feed by diving underwater in marine and freshwater habitats.

 

Other details

 

This duck has a wide distribution in boreal and temperate regions of Eurasia and North America. It has also isolated populations in the mountainous regions of the Alps, the Caucasus and Tibet. Two populations inhabit or visit the European Union. One comprises the birds of northern and north-western Europe, wintering mainly in the Baltic Sea and around the North Sea. It amounts to about 200000 individuals, and seems stable. The birds of the British Isles are sedentary. They amount to about 5000-8000 individuals and increased during the last decades. The population of Central Europe (France, Germany) amounts to 3000 individuals. It is also sedentary and seems to be slightly increasing. A very small population is breeding in the Balkan Peninsula. It is estimated at not more than 11-32 breeding pairs, and its trends are unknown

 

Feeding

 

Common mergansers eat mainly fishes, amphibians, crustaceans, mollusks, and other invertebrates obtained by diving underwater in marine and freshwater habitats

 

Conservation

 

This species has a large range, with an estimated global Extent of Occurrence of 10,000,000 km². It has a large global population estimated to be 450,000-1,400,000 individuals (Wetlands International 2002). Global population trends have not been quantified, but the species is not believed to approach the thresholds for the population decline criterion of the IUCN Red List (i.e. declining more than 30% in ten years or three generations). For these reasons, the species is evaluated as Least Concern. [conservation status from birdlife.org]

 

Breeding

 

Common mergansers breed from Alaska, the southern Yukon, Labrador, and Newfoundland south to central California, Arizona, New Mexico, southern Chihuahua, and, east of the Rockies, to Minnesota, Michigan, New York, New England, and Nova Scotia. Common mergansers nest in tree cavities, nest boxes, cliff crevices, and on the ground generally near clear water rivers in forested regions and mountainous terrain. Female common mergansers lay an average of 9 to 12 eggs.

 

Migration

 

Migratory and partially migratory. No evidence that any Icelandic breeders emigrate. Similarly, British breeders almost entirely resident, moving short distances (mainly within 150 km) from breeding waters to lakes and sheltered estuaries. No evidence that breeders of southernmost Scandinavia, north Germany, and Poland move further than western Baltic, but those breeding central and northern Scandinavia, Finland, Baltic States, and Russia east to Pechora migrate west to Baltic and beyond to Netherlands and Britain, in smaller numbers to west France and north Spain. In late August and early September, moulting and breeding waters often deserted as flocks build up on estuaries and shallow parts of some inland lakes. Mass departures not until advent of freezing; thus major movements through Russia and Baltic October and early November. Early arrivals in North Sea countries late October and early November, but no large numbers until December, while numbers build up on Black Sea and Sea of Azov from mid-October to mid-December. Return migration from early March and, apart from stragglers, non-breeding range vacated by mid-April.

 

(Amazonetta brasiliensis)

==================***==================

All my photos are now organized into sets by the country where they were taken, by taxonomic order, by family, by species (often with just one photo for the rarer ones), and by the date they were taken.

So, you may find:

- All the photos for this trip Brasil // Pantanal (2015)

- All the photos for this order ANSERIFORMES

- All the photos for this family Anatidae (Anatídeos)

- All the photos for this species Amazonetta brasiliensis

- All the photos taken this day 2015/09/14

==================***==================

   

Common Merganser (fem)

Firehole River

Yellowstone National Park, WY

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Aves

Order: Anseriformes

Family: Anatidae

Genus: Anas

Species: A. platyrhynchos

Binomial name

Anas platyrhynchos Linnaeus, 1758

The Mallardor Wild Duck (Anas platyrhynchos) is a dabbling duck which breeds throughout the temperate and subtropical Americas, Europe, Asia, and North Africa, and has been introduced to New Zealand and Australia. This duck belongs to the subfamily Anatinae of the waterfowl family Anatidae.

2009 S 1879 LagdGPate_09

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www.inaturalist.org/observations/22198605

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www.inaturalist.org/observations/22197091

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www.inaturalist.org/observations/22199708

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www.flickr.com/photos/morton1905/10241043936/in/album-721...

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www.flickr.com/photos/morton1905/10241050956/in/album-721...

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www.flickr.com/photos/morton1905/10241042815/in/album-721...

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www.flickr.com/photos/morton1905/10240946554/in/album-721...

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25.V.1958. YU 842 AD 7083 Fa

www.flickr.com/photos/morton1905/51689163268/in/dateposted/

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1.VI.1986. Graz Austria

www.inaturalist.org/observations/35777566

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4.VIII.2009. Colmar 20090804 10050 PhotosFColmar _33 AD 7083 Fa inat

www.inaturalist.org/observations/267658831

+

www.flickr.com/photos/morton1905/54419198953/in/dateposted/

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1.XII.2018. Unije

www.inaturalist.org/observations/28106111

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28.II.2019. Jezero Ponikve na Krku

www.inaturalist.org/observations/22254270

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10.IV.2019. Ponikve Krk

www.inaturalist.org/observations/22319089

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18.IV.2019. Ponikve Krk

www.inaturalist.org/observations/22893088

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28.IV.2019. Unije

www.inaturalist.org/observations/24202773

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7.VIII.2019. Perna Gvozd

www.inaturalist.org/observations/33425996

+ Pisarovina

www.inaturalist.org/observations/35676297

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17.X.2019. Den Bosch

www.inaturalist.org/observations/35197847

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20.X.2019. Austrija Spittal an der Drau District

www.inaturalist.org/observations/34840353

2. M

www.inaturalist.org/observations/35018126

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14.V.2020. Rijeka Dobra

www.inaturalist.org/observations/51340702

2.

www.inaturalist.org/observations/59808572

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28.VIII.2020. Lukeži

www.inaturalist.org/observations/59597056

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13.III.2021. Ogulin

www.inaturalist.org/observations/71885409

2.

www.inaturalist.org/observations/71886096

3.

www.inaturalist.org/observations/71886398

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19.IV.2021. 20210419 Ogulin1_109 AD 7083 Fa

www.inaturalist.org/observations/88679238

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24.IV.2021. 20210424 Ogulin_38 Otok Oštarijski, Croatia

www.inaturalist.org/observations/75208423

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20.V.2021. Krk Jezero Njivice 20210520 KrkJez_2

www.inaturalist.org/observations/81864651

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25.II.2025. 20220225 Batina_64 AD 7083 Fa

www.inaturalist.org/observations/107937409

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www.inaturalist.org/observations/107937595

 

Belmullet Co.Mayo 24-12-2020

 

Scientific classification

Kingdom:Animalia

Phylum:Chordata

Class:Aves

Order:Anseriformes

Family:Anatidae

Genus:Anas

Species:A. rubripes

Binomial name

Anas rubripes

 

The American black duck (Anas rubripes) is a large dabbling duck in the family Anatidae. It was described by William Brewster in 1902. It is the heaviest species in the genus Anas, weighing 720–1,640 g (1.59–3.62 lb) on average and measuring 54–59 cm (21–23 in) in length with a 88–95 cm (35–37 in) wingspan. It somewhat resembles the female mallard in coloration, but has a darker plumage. The male and female are generally similar in appearance, but the male's bill is yellow while the female's is dull green with dark marks on the upper mandible. It is native to eastern North America. During the breeding season, it is usually found in coastal and freshwater wetlands from Saskatchewan to the Atlantic in Canada and the Great Lakes and the Adirondacks in the United States. It is a partially migratory species, mostly wintering in the east-central United States, especially in coastal areas.

 

It interbreeds regularly and extensively with the mallard, to which it is closely related. The female lays six to fourteen oval eggs, which have smooth shells and come in varied shades of white and buff green. Hatching takes 30 days on average. Incubation usually takes 25 to 26 days, with both sexes sharing duties, although the male usually defends the territory until the female reaches the middle of her incubation period. It takes about six weeks to fledge. Once the eggs hatch, the hen leads the brood to rearing areas with abundant invertebrates and vegetation.

 

The American black duck is considered to be a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It has long been valued as a game bird. Habitat loss due to drainage, global warming, filling of wetlands due to urbanization and rising sea levels are major reasons for the declining population of the American black duck. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service has been purchasing and managing the habitat of this species in many areas to support the migratory stopover, wintering and breeding populations. The Atlantic Coast Joint Venture also protects habitat through restoration and land acquisition projects, mostly within their wintering and breeding areas.

Orden:Anseriformes

Familia:Anatidae

Género:Anas

Especie:A. acuta.

Nombre comúnpato golondrino norteño, pato rabilargo, pato pescuecilargo, pato de cola puntiaguda o pato cola de gallo,

Lugar captura;Bosque de la mujer Salcedo.República Dominicana.

Male Tufted Duck (Toppand / Aythya fuligula) from Østensjøvannet (Oslo, Norway).

 

Canon EOS 550D, Sigma 150-500mm.

 

For more, check my Male Tufted Duck and my Female Tufted Duck albums.

[order] Anseriformes | [family] Anatidae | [latin] Anas strepera | [UK] Gadwall | [FR] Canard chipeau | [DE] Schnatterente | [ES] Ánade Friso | [IT] Canapiglia | [NL] Krakeend | [IRL] Gadual

 

spanwidth min.: 78 cm

spanwidth max.: 90 cm

size min.: 46 cm

size max.: 56 cm

Breeding

incubation min.: 24 days

incubation max.: 26 days

fledging min.: 45 days

fledging max.: 50 days

broods 1

eggs min.: 8

eggs max.: 12

 

Anas strepera

 

Gadual

 

Status: Scarce resident at wetlands mainly in the south and east of Ireland.

 

Conservation Concern: Amber-listed due to its small breeding population, as well as the localised wintering population (less than ten sites). The European population of Gadwall has been assessed as Depleted, due to a large historical decline.

 

Identification: Large, but slightly smaller than Mallard. Small white speculum prominent in adult male. Males with brown head, black stern and grey body. Females similar to Mallard, though whitish belly, small white speculum, an orange, even stripe along the cutting edge of the bill.

 

Similar Species: Mallard and other duck species.

 

Call: Males with short, croaking 'ahrk' and high-pitched whistling 'pee' in courtship. Females with quacking call similar to Mallard.

 

Diet: They feed on a mixed diet of seeds, insects and aquatic vegetation.

 

Breeding: Nest on a variety of freshwater and brackish wetlands, especially shallow lakes with abundant emergent vegetation, slow moving rivers and marshes.

 

Wintering: Localised wintering distribution at a variety of inland and coastal sites.

 

Where to See: Loughs Neagh & Beg in County Antrim, Tacumshin Lake in County Wexford, Lady's Island Lake in County Wexford, Strangford Lough in County Down and the Corofin Wetlands in County Clare are among the top sites (each supporting 80- 150 birds).

  

Physical characteristics

 

Gadwalls are medium-sized ducks characterized by a general lack of bright coloration. Males are gray-brown, with a white belly, and a black rump. In flight, a white speculum and chestnut and black portions on the wing coverts are displayed. The bill is slate-gray and the legs and feet are yellow. The male utters a short "nheck" and a low whistle. Female gadwalls are similar to males, but have a mottled brown appearance, a yellowish bill with dark spots, and a smaller white speculum. She utters a repeated "gag-ag-ag-ag-ag" higher in pitch than the mallard.

 

Habitat

 

Female gadwall nest in fields and meadows, and on islands and dikes in wetlands. They are found in reservoirs, farm ponds, and coastal fresh and brackish marshes.

 

Other details

 

A species breeding in the temperate regions of North America and Eurasia. The breeding populations of the western parts of the European Union are more or less sedentary, but they are increased in winter by migratory birds from the Baltic region. This population is totalling 30000 individuals, and seems to have increased during the last decades (Scott & Rose). The birds breeding in Greece or visiting Greece in winter belong to a more oriental population, estimated at 75000-150000 individuals but currently declining

 

Feeding

 

Aquatic vegetation makes up the majority of the gadwall's diet. As a result, they are often found feeding far from the shoreline, in deeper water than most other dabbling ducks. Gadwall up-end to feed on leafy portions of pondweeds, naiad, widgeon grass, water milfoil, and algae and the seeds of pondweeds, smartweeds, bulrush, and spike rush. They also feed on aquatic invertebrates, such as crustaceans and midges.

 

Conservation

 

This species has a large range, with an estimated global Extent of Occurrence of 10,000,000 km². It has a large global population estimated to be 3,800,000-4,400,000 individuals (Wetlands International 2002). Global population trends have not been quantified, but the species is not believed to approach the thresholds for the population decline criterion of the IUCN Red List (i.e. declining more than 30% in ten years or three generations). For these reasons, the species is evaluated as Least Concern. [conservation status from birdlife.org]

 

Breeding

 

Gadwall breed near seasonal and semi-permanent wetlands, mainly in the shortgrass, tallgrass, and mixed prairie regions of the US and Canada. Substantial numbers also breed in wetland habitats of the Great Basin. Gadwall tend to begin breeding later than most ducks. Female gadwall nest in fields and meadows, and on islands and dikes in wetlands and lay an average of 7 to 12 eggs.

 

Migration

 

Partially migratory; northernmost breeding birds descend to lower latitudes in winter, but breeders of more temperate regions mostly sedentary.

 

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