Anseriformes photos on Flickr

Wood/Carolina Duck (Aix sponsa) by Brian Carruthers-Dublin-Eire

Wood/Carolina Duck on Quarry Lake, Phoenix Park, Dublin

Measurements

spanwidth min.: 70 cm

spanwidth max.: 73 cm

size min.: 47 cm

size max.: 54 cm

Breeding

incubation min.: 31 days

incubation max.: 35 days

fledging min.: 56 days

fledging max.: 70 days

broods 1

eggs min.: 9

eggs max.: 14

Physical characteristics

Wood Ducks are intermediate in size, between the Mallard and Blue-winged Teal; on average, males weigh 680 g and females weigh 460 g. From a distance, the male Wood Duck on the water appears as a dark-bodied, dark-breasted, light-flanked duck with a striped crested head and a light-coloured throat. At close range, its iridescent plumage, red eyes, and black, red, and white bill are conspicuous. A white eye-ring, light-coloured throat, and fine crest distinguish the female from both the male Wood Duck and females of other species. Both sexes usually show a downward pointing crest at the back of the head, and their long broad square tails are distinctive features in flight.

The wings of Wood Ducks are highly characteristic. The primary wing feathers, which are the 10 outermost flight feathers attached to the wing beyond the wrist, are dark in colour. The outer vanes of these feathers look as if they have been sprayed with aluminum paint. The Wood Duck is the only North American duck so marked.

In most cases it is possible to distinguish immature from mature ducks and to tell males from females by their wings alone. In the Wood Duck, as in other ducks, the feathers of that year's young are finer, more pointed and worn, and less colourful than those of adults. Females show a few small feathers on the upper surface of the wing that are purplish and have the same lustre as oil on water. These feathers are absent in males. The white tips on the feathers along the trailing edge of the wing are usually teardrop-shaped in the female, but either straight or V-shaped in the male. By studying the wings of ducks taken by hunters, biologists can determine the ratio of young to adult ducks in the population and thereby measure waterfowl production.

The Wood Duck is a distinctively North American species. Its only close relative is the Mandarin Duck of eastern Asia. Evidently the Wood Duck originated in North America, as fossil remains have been found only in widely scattered locations in the eastern part of the continent.

Habitat

Like other perching ducks, Wood Ducks nest in trees. Preferred nesting sites are holes in hollow trunks or large branches that result from broken limbs, fire scars, lightning and logging damage. They also use cavities created by large woodpeckers such as the Pileated Woodpecker. Nests are situated from 1 to 15 m above ground, in trees more than 40 cm in diameter. They are usually found close to water, although females sometimes select trees some distance from water.

Other details

In Canada, the Wood Duck nests in scattered locations in the southern parts of all provinces; however, there is only one breeding record for Newfoundland and Labrador. The most extensive breeding ranges are in Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, and British Columbia. This duck occurs over a much wider area in late summer and early autumn, as a result of post-breeding dispersal. Although most Wood Ducks migrate to the United States, a few may spend the winter in extreme southern Ontario and southeastern British Columbia.

The Wood Duck is much more widely distributed in the United States, where it nests in areas east of the Mississippi River, along the lower Missouri River into South Dakota, in eastern Texas, along the Pacific coast, and in a few other places. It winters mainly along the Atlantic coast from New York south, along the Gulf coast into central Texas, to the lower Mississippi River valley and western California. A few winter in Mexico south to Distrito Federal. In Europe all sightings are of escaped birds.

Feeding

The Wood Duck is mainly a herbivore, or vegetarian, with plant foods making up about 90 percent of its diet. Foods vary according to their local availability, but duckweeds, cypress seeds, sedges, grasses, pondweeds, and acorns are among the more important foods throughout North America. In recent years corn has assumed a greater importance as small groups of Wood Ducks engage in field feeding behaviour similar to that of dabbling ducks, such as Mallards.

Ducklings require a high protein diet for rapid growth. Invertebrates such as dragonflies, bugs, beetles, and spiders are important foods during the first few weeks of life, so high populations of these small creatures are essential in habitats where the young will hatch and develop.

Conservation

This species has a large range, with an estimated global Extent of Occurrence of 6,200,000 km². It has a large global population estimated to be 3,500,000 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

The female Wood Duck breeds when one year old. She lines the nest with down, or fine feathers, taken from her breast, and lays eight to 15 dull-white to cream-coloured eggs. She incubates, or keeps the eggs warm, for 28 to 30 days until they hatch. During unusually cold weather, or if the female is away from the nest for an abnormally long time, incubation may require a few extra days.

Upon hatching, usually in June in eastern Canada, the young use their sharp claws to climb up the inside of the nesting cavity to its entrance, then jump and flutter to the ground, generally landing unharmed. The female guides them to the nearest water, where they will spend the next eight to nine weeks hunting for food together.

Shortly after the female begins incubation the male loses interest in family affairs and spends more time away from the nest. He joins other males, which eventually form large groups. As mid-summer approaches, the males begin the move to remote, undisturbed, sheltered places to moult, or shed old feathers. To reach these areas, they may travel great distances; many thousands migrate to southeastern Canada from breeding grounds in the northern states. On arrival the moult begins, and by August the brilliant spring feathers of the male have been replaced by a plumage similar to that of the female. Then, all at once, the flight feathers are moulted, leaving the male flightless for approximately four weeks while new feathers grow in.

Soon after the ducklings have fledged, or taken their first flight, usually by mid-August in eastern Canada, the females leave their broods, move a short distance, and undergo their moult. Like the males, they too seek out remote, undisturbed swamps and marshes and become flightless for a short period.

In late summer and early autumn, the young with their newly acquired powers of flight and the adults with their recently replaced flight feathers move in a leisurely way about the northern parts of their range. Their principal concern is to store up energy, in the form of fat, in preparation for the soon-to-come fall migration.

Migration

Wood Ducks migrate north to their Canadian breeding grounds, arriving there by April. Pair formation may occur on the wintering grounds before or during spring migration, or on the breeding grounds if one of the pair is lost. Mated pairs seek out secluded swamps or beaver ponds that provide water, nesting sites, brooding habitat, and feeding areas. Females often return to the same general area in which they were hatched.

By the first severe frost, usually in late September or early October in eastern Canada, Wood Ducks begin to head for the southeastern United States. Southern populations of Wood Ducks, particularly females, are less migratory. Populations in the interior of British Columbia migrate to the west coast, whereas Wood Ducks that live on the coast do not migrate at all. Has occurred Bermuda (regular), Azores and Alaska. Many sightings from Europe, presumed escapes.

American Black Duck (Anas rubripes) by Brian Carruthers-Dublin-Eire

13-05-2019 New Jersey

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.

Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) by Brian Carruthers-Dublin-Eire

spanwidth min.: 81 cm

spanwidth max.: 95 cm

size min.: 50 cm

size max.: 60 cm

Breeding

incubation min.: 27 days

incubation max.: 28 days

fledging min.: 50 days

fledging max.: 60 days

broods 1

eggs min.: 9

eggs max.: 13

Anas platyrhynchos

Mallard

Status: Resident, winter migrant from Iceland, Fennoscandia, Russia, Poland, Denmark, Germany, The Netherlands, Belgium & France. Additional captive-bred birds are released each year for hunting.

Conservation Concern: Green-listed in Ireland. The European population is regarded as Secure by BirdLife International.

Identification: Among the largest of our ducks (with the exception of Shelduck). Males with striking green head, yellow bill, white ring around the necj, grey underparts, blue speculum, black rump. Females brown in colour, but with blue speculum, dark stripe across the eye and whitish tail sides.

Similar Species: Males are unmistakable. Females and juveniles resemble other female and immature dabbling ducks.

Call: Male with nasal 'rheab', repeated when alert on water, and short whistle during courtship. Loud quacking of females.

Diet: Diet highly variable, and plant material, particularly seeds predominate. A range of animal material is also taken, including molluscs and crustaceans. Other food taken includes grain and stubble, and they have been shown to feed on a variety of food items presented by humans.

Breeding: Nest sites vary, mostly in ground where hidden in vegetation.

Wintering: Mallard are the most widespread species, although not quite as numerous as Wigeon or Teal. They occur in almost all available wetland habitats in Ireland.

Where to See: Common throughout Ireland. Loughs Neagh & Beg in County Antrim, Wexford Harbour & Slobs in County Wexford, Lough Foyle in County Derry, Strangford Lough in County Down and Lough Swilly in County Donegal are among the top wintering sites (1,000-5,500 birds).

Physical characteristics

The handsome Mallard Anas platyrhynchos is the best known wild duck in the world. The male in breeding dress is unmistakable. The glossy head and upper neck are brilliant green, separated from the rich chestnut of the breast by a white collar. The rest of the underparts and the sides are light grey.

The back and wings of the bird are greyish brown, with a purplish-blue speculum, or wing patch, on the wing. The whitish tail has black above and below it. Two central black feathers that curve back above the tail give the breeding male its characteristic curly-tailed appearance. The male has a yellow bill and orange legs and feet.

The female Mallard is a much less colourful bird. Its back is mottled brown, its breast heavily streaked with buff and darker brown. It is best recognized by the white-bordered speculum on the wing, which is similar to that of the male. The female has an orange bill, sometimes blotched with black, and its legs and feet are orange.

Habitat

Mallards are one of the first ducks to arrive back on the breeding grounds in spring. They are adaptable and may nest near a lake, pond, river, or even woodland pool. Their preferred habitats, however, are the natural grasslands that surround little reed-ringed sloughs, or marshy areas, and potholes on the prairies.

Even in the heart of many major cities, half-tame Mallards waddle ashore from park lakes to take food from the hands of visitors. The Mallard is a typical member of the surface-feeding group of ducks, known as the dabblers. It is often seen in the tipped-up position with its tail held vertical. Although the bird can dive in an emergency, it rarely does so.

Other details

This duck is breeding throughout northern Eurasia and North America. For practical reasons its populations of the European Union can be subdivided in three distinct sub-populations, separated by their wintering quarters. The first, totalling about 5000000 individuals and apparently stable, is wintering in the Atlantic regions from Denmark to the British Isles and Aquitaine. The second population is estimated at 1000000 individuals, and has nearly doubled during the last 20 years. It winters around the western Mediterranean, from Italy to Iberia. The third population is still estimated at 2250000 individuals, but has probably declined by 60-75% during the last 20 years. It winters in the Black Sea regions and the eastern Mediterranean, e. g. in Greece

Feeding

Mallards dabble to feed on seeds, rootlets, and tubers of aquatic plants, seeds of swamp and river bottoms. Mallards are one of the few ducks that habitually feed on grain. Barley and wheat are preferred. Most grain is now harvested by combine, and ducks cannot do much damage, except when the grain is left in swaths because of poor weather.

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 29,000,000-30,000,000 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

By late March or early April, the first of the Mallards are back on the prairies, the place in Canada where they are the most numerous. At this time, lakes and ponds are usually frozen, and only meltwater fills the hollows of pasture lands and fields. The early arrivals are usually mated pairs. The female, accompanied by the male, searches for a territory. Most often, she will choose a territory close to where she was born. Some females return year after year to the same site.

The nesting site may be close to a pond but is frequently at some distance and may even be far from water. Normally on the ground, the nest is little more than a depression lined with bits of rushes, grass, weeds, or other material close at hand. It is usually in good cover such as thick grass, or under a buckbrush, brier rose, or other prairie shrub. The eggs, which with different birds may vary in colour from dull green to almost white, are laid daily. Up to 15 may be deposited, but the usual number is between 8 and 12.

Incubation, or warming of the eggs until they hatch, does not start until the last egg has been laid. This ensures that all the ducklings will hatch at approximately the same time. During the laying period, and particularly in the early stages of incubation, the female sheds down, or fine feathers, from her belly to line the nest. This grey down, with white centres, is pulled over the eggs when the duck leaves the nest to feed. It not only supplies warmth but hides the eggs from crows, magpies, and other predators, which are quick to find uncovered eggs.

The female does all the incubating, which takes around 28 days. The ducklings emerge as handsome little balls of down. Their clove-brown backs are relieved by four yellow patches. Faces and underparts are also yellow, with the exception of a dark ear spot and a brown line through the eye. Mallards may re-nest up to three or four times if their nests are destroyed. Each successive nest will have fewer eggs. However, Mallards do not raise more than a single brood of ducklings each year.

As soon as the ducklings are dry, the female leads them to the nearest water. This may be a long and hazardous journey. Although the female may have nested near a pothole or slough full of spring meltwater, much of this water may have evaporated, leaving nothing but drying mud. On overland trips, straggling ducklings may get lost in the grass or be picked up by predators. The Mallard is an excellent mother, however. She will stop at frequent intervals to collect and brood, or warm, her young. If surprised by an intruder, she is likely to go flapping and squawking across the ground, as if injured. This feigned injury may not fool a human, but undoubtedly lures predators away.

Once on the water, the female leads her brood to feeding areas. The young find their own food, which at first probably consists of small crustaceans, or hard-shelled creatures, such as water fleas, insects, and tiny plants like duckweed. The young gradually lose their down and grow their feathers. In about 10 weeks they have assumed a plumage that is much like that of the female. By that time, the female has abandoned them. After the breeding season Mallards moult, or shed old feathers, into what is known as an eclipse plumage. The males are the first to undergo this moult.

The males remain on their territories for about the first 10 days of incubation. After that, they desert their mates. They move to larger marshes, where they lose their brilliant breeding plumage and become more similar to the hen, or female. All their flight feathers are shed at once, and for about a month the birds are flightless. They hide in the reeds until their new feathers are grown. When the females have left their broods, they too gather in the reeds to moult. They also become flightless, but the new plumage they assume is little different from the one they have shed. In the late fall the young gain the plumage of their respective sexes. The males, however, may not attain their full brilliance until their second year. In late summer the birds gather in mixed flocks of young and old. Throughout much of the day they sit idly far from shore. As the grain ripens, the ducks make their flights to the feeding fields. These flights are usually made in early morning and late evening, but in dull, stormy weather may occur throughout the day. They provide the hunter with the best duck shooting.

Migration

Partially migratory, northernmost breeding populations generally winter much further S, but sedentary in temperate regions (most of Europe, parts of N America). Many records outside range, but perhaps majority attributable to escape.

Anser fabalis by sharksfin

Order:

Anseriformes

Family:

Anatidae

Genus:

Anser

Scientific:

Anser fabalis

Citation:

(Latham, 1787)

Reference:

Gen.Syn.BirdsSuppl. p.297

Protonym:

Anas Fabalis

Avibase ID:

BDB497A352D152DB

Short link:

avibase.ca/BDB497A3

Taxonomic Serial Number:

TSN: 175024

Belarusian: Гусь-гуменнiца, Гусь-гуменніца

Bulgarian: Посевна гъска, Тайгова посевна гъска

Breton: Ar waz eostoù

Catalan: Oca de bec curt

Catalan (Balears): Oca pradenca

Valencian: Oca salvatge

Montenegrin: guska glogovnjača

Czech: husa polní

Welsh: Gŵydd y llafur

Danish: Sædgås, Tajgasædgås

German: Saatgans, Waldsaatgans

Greek: Χωραφόχηνα

English: Bean Goose, Eastern bean goose, Taiga Bean Goose, Taiga Bean Goose (nominate group), Taiga Bean Goose [nominate group], Taiga Bean-Goose

English (United Kingdom): Taiga Bean Goose

English (IOC): Taiga Bean Goose

Esperanto: Fabansero

Spanish: Ánsar Campestre, Ánsar campestre de la Taiga

Spanish (Spain): Ánsar Campestre

Spanish (HBW): Taiga Bean-Goose

Spanish (Mexico): Ganso Campestre

Estonian: Rabahani

Basque: Antzara hankahoria, Antzara mokolaburra

Persian: غاز پازرد

Finnish: metsähanhi

Faroese: Ekrugás

French: Oie des moissons, Oie des moissons (groupe nominal)

Frisian: Taigawink

Irish: síolghé

Gaelic: Muir Gèadh

Galician: Ganso campestre

Manx: Guiy Poanrey

Hebrew: אווז אחו טאיגה, אוז אחו

Croatian: Guska Glogovnjača

Hungarian: Tajgai vetési lúd, Vetési lúd

Icelandic: Akurgæs, Akurgæs (fabalis)

Italian: Oca granaiola, Oca granaiola della taiga

Japanese: Hishikui, hishi-kui, nishihishikui, numa-tarō, ō-gari

Japanese: オオガリ, オオヒシクイ, ニシヒシクイ, ヌマタロウ, ヒシクイ

Japanese (Kanji): 大雁, 沼太郎, 菱喰

Georgian: მეკალოე ბატი, მეკალოე ღერღეტი

Kazakh: Қырманқаз

Kazakh (Transliteration): qırman-qaz

Korean: 큰기러기

Korean (Transliteration): keun-gireogi

Cornish: Goth tros gwynruth

Scientific: Anas Fabalis, Anser fabalis, Anser fabalis [fabalis], Anser fabalis fabalis

Luxembourgish: Mouergäns , Taigagäns

Limburgish: Reetgajs

Lithuanian: Zelmeninė žąsis, Želmenine žasis, Želmeninė žąsis

Latvian: Sējas zoss, Taigas sējas zoss

Macedonian: Палска (Посебна) гуска

Mongolian: Буурал галуу, Шанхар галуу

Mongolian (Bichig): ᠪᠣᠭᠣᠷᠣᠯ ᠭᠠᠯᠠᠭᠣ

Mongolian (Bichig, Inner Mongolia): ᠱᠠᠩᠬᠠᠲᠣ ᠭᠠᠯᠠᠭᠣ

Mongolian (Cyrillic, Inner Mongolia): Шанхат галуу

Mongolian (Transliteration): buuralg aluu, shaŋkarg aluu, shaŋkhatg aluu

Moldavian: Gâscă de semănătură

Maltese: Wiżża tal-Ful

Nepali: पहेंलोठू“डे कलहा“स

Dutch: Taigarietgans

Norwegian Nynorsk: Sædgås

Norwegian: Sædgås

Polish: ges zbozowa, gęś zbożowa

Pinyin: dà yàn, dōngfāng dòu-yàn, dòu-yàn, hóng, mài é, pǔtōng dà yàn, xībólìyà dòu-yàn

Portuguese: Ganso-campestre

Portuguese (Portugal): Ganso-campestre-da-taiga

Romansh: Auca da graun

Romanian: Gâscă de semănătură

Russian: Гуменник

Scots: Muir gheadh

Northern Sami: Cuonji

Slovak: Hus siatinná

Slovenian: njivska gos

Albanian: Pata e arave

Serbian: Guska glogovnjača (šumska), Guska ljigarica

Swedish: Sädgås, tajgasädgås

Turkish: Tarla kazı, Tarla Kazı (fabalis), Қырманқаз

Tuvinian: Шаң казы

Ukrainian: Гуменник

Chinese: 东方豆雁, 大雁, 普通大雁, 西伯利亚豆雁, 豆雁, 鸿, 麦鹅

Chinese (Traditional): 大雁, 寒林豆雁, 普通大雁, 東方豆雁, 西伯利亞豆雁, 豆雁, 鴻, 麥鵝

Chinese (Taiwan, Traditional): 豆雁

Chinese (Taiwan): 豆雁

Anas platyrhynchos by sharksfin

1

Neusiedlersee

Ordnung:

Anseriformes

Familie :

Anatidae

Gattung:

Anas

Wissenschaftlich :

Anas platyrhynchos

Zitat:

Linnaeus, 1758

Referenz:

Syst.Nat.ed.10 p.125

Protonym:

Anas platyrhynchos

Avibase ID:

D6F5A788399B36E7

Kurzlink:

avibase.ca/D6F5A788

Taxonomic Serial Number:

TSN: 175063

Afrikaans: Groenkopeend

Arabisch: البُركة, البُركة بو الخصيف, الخضيري

Asturian: Coríu Rial

Aserbaidschanisch: Yaşılbaş ördək

Weißrussisch: Качка-крыжанка, Крыжанка

Bulgarisch: Зеленоглава патица

Bengali: নীলমাথা হাঁস

Bretonisch: An houad-korz, Houad, Houad-korz

Katalanisch: Ànec collverd, Ànec coll-verd, Collverd, Coll-verd

Catalan (Balears): Collverd

Valencian: Coll-verd

Tschechisch: Kachna divoká

Tschuwaschisch: Кăвакал-хай

Walisisch: Cors hwyad, Corshwyaden, Garan hwyad, Hwyaden wyllt

Dänisch: Gråand

Deutsch: Laysanente, Stockente, Stockente-platyrhynchus

Griechisch: [prasinokefali], Πρασινοκέφαλη, Πρασινοκέφαλη Πάπια

Greek (Cypriot): Πρασινοτζέφαλη

Englisch: Common mallard, Green-headed Duck, Green-headed mallard, Greenland, Mallard, Mallard Duck, Mallard or Mexican Duck, Mexican Duck, New Mexican Duck, Northern mallard

English (Kenya): Mallard

English (Philippines): Mallard

Esperanto: Platbeka anaso

Spanisch: Anade Azulón, Ánade azulón, Anade real, Ánade Real, Azulón, Pato Cabeciverde, Pato de Collar, Pato Inglés, Pato Real

Spanish (Argentine): Ánade Real, Azulón

Spanish (Chile): Pato de collar

Spanish (Colombia): Pato doméstico, Pato Real

Spanish (Costa Rica): Pato Cabeciverde

Spanish (Cuba): Pato Inglés

Spanish (Dominican Rep.): Pato Inglés

Spanish (Spain): Ánade Azulón

Spanish (Honduras): Pato de collar

Spanish (Mexico): Pato de Collar

Spanish (Nicaragua): Pato Cabeciverde

Spanish (Panama): Pato Cabeciverde

Spanish (Puerto Rico): Pato Cabeciverde

Spanish (Uruguay): Pato Cabeciverde

Estnisch: sinikael-part

Baskisch: Ànec collverd, Basahate, Basahatea

Finnisch: Heinä- eli sinisorsa, Sinisorsa

Färöisch: Stokkont, Stokk-ont, Villdunna

Französisch: Canard colvert, Canard colvert ou C. du Mexique, Canard malard

Friulisch: Masurin, Mazar, Mazorin, Raze grande

Friesisch: Wylde ein

Irisch: Lacha Fhiáin, Mallard

Gälisch-Schottisch: Lach, Lacha Chinn Naine, Tunnag Fhiadhaich

Galicisch: Alavanco real, Ànec collverd, Lavanco, Pato real

Manx: Laagh Voirrey, Thunnag Feie

Haitian Creole French: Kanna kolvèt

Hebräisch: ברכיה, ברכייה

Kroatisch: Divlja Patka

Ungarisch: Tokés réce, Tõkés réce, Tőkés réce

Armenisch: [Krnchan Bud ], Կռնչան Բադ

Indonesisch: Itik kalung

Isländisch: Stokkönd

Italienisch: Germano reale

Inuktitut: Qeerlutooq

Japanisch: Ao-kubi, Hon-gamo, magamo, Ma-gamo

Japanisch: アオクビ, ホンガモ, マガモ

Japanese (Kanji): 本鴨, 真鴨, 青首

Georgisch: გარეული იხვი

Khakas: Сас öртек, Чазы öртегi

Kasachisch: Барылдауық үйрек

Kazakh (Transliteration): barıldawık üyrek

Koreanisch: 청둥오리

Korean (Transliteration): cheongdung-ori

Kaschmiri: [Nilij]

Kornisch: Hos gwyls, Mallart

Latein: Anas [platyrhynchos or diazi], Anas boschas, Anas platyrhynchos, Anas platyrhynchos or diazi, Anas platyrhynchos platyrhynchos

Luxemburgisch: Wëll Int

Ladin: Anera salvaria

Litauisch: Didžioji antis

Lettisch: Meža pīle

Makedonisch: Дива патка, Патка глуварка

Mongolisch: Зэрлэг нугас

Mongolian (Bichig): ᠵᠠᠷᠯᠢᠭ᠌ ᠨᠣᠭᠣᠰᠣ

Mongolian (Buryat): Һоно нугаһан

Mongolian (Bichig, Inner Mongolia): ᠬᠡᠭᠡᠷ ᠵᠢᠨ ᠨᠣᠭᠣᠰᠣ

Mongolian (Cyrillic, Inner Mongolia): Зэрлэг нугас, Хээрийн нугас

Mongolian (Transliteration): hono nugahan, kheeriŋ nugas, zerleg nug as, zerleg nugas

Malaiisch: Itik Melewar

Maltesisch: Kuluvert

Niederländisch: Wilde eend

Norwegisch: Blåhals, Grasand, Stokkand

Polnisch: krzyzówka, Krzyżówka, Krzyżówka zwyczajna

Pinyin: chén wù, dà hóng-tuǐ yā, dà lǜ-tóu, dà má-yā, dà yě-yā, duì yā, fú, guān yā, lǜ-tóu yā, qīng biān, yě-wù, yě-yā

Portugiesisch: pato real, Pato-real

Portuguese (Portugal): Pato-real

Romansh: Anda selvadia

Rumänisch: Divlio-ratsa, Divlio-ratsoy, Raţă mare

Zigeunersprache: Divlio-ratsoy

Russisch: Kryakva, Кряква, Кряква обыкновенная, Обыкновенная кряква

Sardisch: Anadi conca birdi, Conchirde, Testirde

Schottisch: Lach, Lacha chinn naine, Tounag

Nordsamisch: Suoidnesuorsi

Slowakisch: Kačica divá

Slowenisch: mlakarica, raca mlakarica

Albanisch: Kuqla qafëgjelbër, Rosa e vëndit, Rosë e egër

Serbisch: Divlja patka, divlja patka gluvara, gluvara, Глувара, Дивлја патка, Дивља патка, Патка глувара

Schwedisch: Gräsand, gräsand/mexikansk and

Thailändisch: เป็ดมาลลาร์ด, เป็ดหัวเขียว

Thai (Transliteration): pèt hŭa-kʰĭaw, pèt maanlâad

Turkmenisch: yeşilbaş

Türkisch: Yeşilbaş, Yeşilbaş Ördek, Барылдауық үйрек

Tuwinisch: бос, Черлик өдурек, Чыргырааш өдурек

Ukrainisch: Крижень

Vietnamesisch: Le le, Vịt cổ xanh, Vịt mỏ vàng, Vịt nước

Sorbian, Lower: Źiwa kacka

Sorbian, Upper: Dźiwja kačka

Chinesisch: [chen wu], [da hong-tui ya], [da ma-ya], [da ye-ya], [fu], [lu-tou ya], [qing bian], [ye-wu], [ye-ya], 凫, 大红腿鸭, 大绿头, 大野鸭, 大麻鸭, 官鸭, 对鸭, 晨骛, 沉骛, 綠頭鴨, 绿头鸭, 野骛, 野鸭, 青边

Chinese (Traditional): 大紅腿鴨, 大綠頭, 大野鴨, 大麻鴨, 官鴨, 對鴨, 晨騖, 沉騖, 綠頭鴨, 野騖, 野鴨, 青邊, 鳧

Chinese (Taiwan, Traditional): 綠頭鴨

Chinese (Taiwan): [lu-tou ya], 綠頭鴨, 绿头鸭

Anseriformes (cont) by Anthony Brown

Safety Manual For Zookeepers (Animal Restraint)

by: Peter Karsten

Calgary Zoo

Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Couldn't let this incredible knowledge and glimpse into the recent history of zookeeping degrade with this paper-based book

(Anseriformes: Anatidae) Mergus merganser ♀, Storskrake / Common merganser by Rickard Holgersson

Lesser Scaup [Duck] (male, breeding) - Aythya affinis by James Spitznas

5 11

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

Anseriformes - Anatidae - Aythya - affinis

Canada geese and snow geese in Kent County, Md. by Chesapeake Bay Program

Snow geese and Canada geese forage in an agricultural field in Kent County, Md., on Jan. 16, 2013. (Photo by Steve Droter/Chesapeake Bay Program)

USAGE REQUEST INFORMATION

The Chesapeake Bay Program's photographic archive is available for media and non-commercial use at no charge.

To request permission, send an email briefly describing the proposed use to requests@chesapeakebay.net. Please do not attach jpegs. Instead, reference the corresponding Flickr URL of the image.

A photo credit mentioning the Chesapeake Bay Program is mandatory. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way or used in any way that suggests approval or endorsement of the Chesapeake Bay Program. Requestors should also respect the publicity rights of individuals photographed, and seek their consent if necessary.

Aythya fuligula (Tepeli patka - Tufted Duck) by Adem ADAKUL

2 33

Scientific classification:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Aves

Order: Anseriformes

Family: Anatidae

Genus: Aythya

Species: A. fuligula

2022_03_13_5DMk4_60261 by Doug's Graphics

2

Redheads

Colfax County, NM

2021_01_24_5DMk4_31312 by Doug's Graphics

2

Lesser Scaup

Taos County, NM

2020_12_27_5DMk4_29300 by Doug's Graphics

1

Ruddy Duck

Bosque del Apache NWR, NM

Brown on brown by cotinis

3

Brown Teal, Pateke - Anas chlorotis

New Zealand endemic, threatened but recovering.

Greylag Goose (Anser anser) by Brian Carruthers-Dublin-Eire

3

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.

16- LIFER!! Macho y hembra de Amazonetta brasiliensis propia de America del Sur!! Se encuentra presente en Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Brasil, Bolivia, Paraguay, Perú, Argentina y Uruguay. by José Miguel Pantaleón Inoa

3

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

Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus) by Brian Carruthers-Dublin-Eire

3

spanwidth min.: 205 cm

spanwidth max.: 235 cm

size min.: 140 cm

size max.: 160 cm

Breeding

incubation min.: 31 days

incubation max.: 42 days

fledging min.: 78 days

fledging max.: 96 days

broods 1

eggs min.: 3

eggs max.: 5

Physical characteristics

Size is similar to the Mute Swan, but there are noticeable differences. Whooper Swans have a yellow and black beak, a more rigid neck bearing in activiy as well as at rest, and, finally, their wings produce a musical sound when they fly. Their feathers are entirely white and their webbed feet are black. Juveniles show a greyish brown plumage. After one year, they get their adult one.

The Whooper Swan can also be mistaken for the Bewick Swan whose he's very close. There are two ways to differentiate them: the Whooper Swan is much bigger, with a longer neck and a more angulous head, and the beak's yellow/black layout is different. While the Whooper's Swan beak looks globally yellow with just a black tip, the Bewick's Swan's one is mainly black with a yellow base, sometimes half yellow, half black. Unlike the Mute Swan, it never raises its wings above its back when it swims and its neck is straighter.

Habitat

Winters on low agricultural land, generally not far from coast. Breeds in northern zones, on shallow fresh waters: pools, lakes and rivers in wooded country. Rarely in tundra.

Other details

Cygnus cygnus breeds mainly in Iceland, Fennoscandia and northern Russia, but winters patchily across much of Europe, which constitutes >50% of its global wintering range. Its European wintering population is relatively large (>65,000 individuals), and was stable between 1970-1990. Although there were declines in a handful of countries during 1990-2000, most European wintering populations-including key ones in Denmark and Germany-were broadly stable or increased, and the species underwent a large increase overall.

Whooper Swans nest mainly in Eurasian boreal regions. They split in three distinct groups. The most occidental one, with a stable population of about 16 000 individuals, nests in Iceland. The central one nests in Scandinavia and Occidental Russia. It is estimated at 59 000 individuals, regularly increasing. The most oriental group is located in Siberia. Its population, estimated at 17 000 individuals, is probably decreasing. These groups migrate south beginning autumn with the first cold days. The occidental group leaves Iceland for the British Isles, North Sea and Channel coasts, as far as the farthest point of Brittany. The oriental group sets up on Caspian and Black Sea shores. The Scandinavian group is the one that has the shortest migration. During winter, Whooper Swans, like Bewick Swans, spend a great deal of time grazing.

Feeding

Essentially vegetarian. It eats aquatic plants and uses all parts of it (stems, leaves, roots, shoots). It also graze in prairies, like geese. It may eat small invertebrates, but it's a minor part of their diet.

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 180,000 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

Pairs unite for lifetime. Males are very active in nest building. Their nest is bulky and made essentially with stems and leaves. The bottom is covered with twigs, leaves and feathers. In April-May, the female lays 4 to 7 eggs and sits on for 5 to 6 weeks. Chicks are precocious and are carried on the female's back under the male's aggressive watch and protection. Taking flight occurs 87 to 90 days after hatching.

Migration

Migratory. Part of Icelandic population remains in winter. Migrates southwards to temperate areas, sporadically in more southern latitudes in cold winters; vagrant to USA and Pakistan.

Aythya ferina - Fuligule milouin ou Milouin d'Europe (♀) - Common pochard - 05/07/04 by Philippe BOISSEL

Aythya ferina - Fuligule milouin ou Milouin d'Europe (♀) - Common pochard

Cette espèce subit un déclin important et est donc considérée comme menacée d'extinction.

avibase.bsc-eoc.org/species.jsp?lang=FR&avibaseid=A96...

Anas rubripes American Black Duck NY OCT 101022 5S6Z3392 by Alan Wells

1

Aves

Anseriformes

Anatidae

Anas rubripes

American Black Duck

In small pond just north of Lake, reflecting fall colors

Rockland Lake State Park

Rockland Co., NY

Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata) male by Brian Carruthers-Dublin-Eire

2

spanwidth min.: 73 cm

spanwidth max.: 82 cm

size min.: 44 cm

size max.: 52 cm

Breeding

incubation min.: 22 days

incubation max.: 23 days

fledging min.: 40 days

fledging max.: 45 days

broods 1

eggs min.: 7

eggs max.: 12

Status: Resident & winter migrant. Most occur between October and March. Wintering birds originate from breeding populations which range across France, northern Europe, the Baltic and western Russia. Ireland and northern Britain also support the small Icelandic breeding population during the winter.

Conservation Concern: Red-listed (National, BoCCI), SPEC 3 declining, moderate recent decline (Europe)

Identification: Medium to large sized with a long and broad bill. Males with green head, white breast, chestnut belly and flanks, blue upper forewing. Females similar to Mallard but distinguished by the bill and darker brown belly.

Similar Species: Males could be confused with Shelduck. Females resemble other female dabbling ducks.

Call: Disyllabic nasal knocking call of male when flushed. Female similar though more wheezy 'kerr-ash'.

Diet: Feed predominantly on zooplankton which are found mostly on ephemeral wetlands, particularly turloughs and callows. They also feed on small molluscs, insects and larvae, seeds and plant material and are frequently seen dabbling around the edges of waterpools.

Breeding: Nests on the ground among waterside vegetation, often many nests in close proximity. Breeding in Ireland is centred around Lough Neagh and the mid- Shannon basin.

Wintering: Shoveler prefer shallow eutrophic waters rich in plankton, and occur on a variety of habitats while wintering in Ireland, including coastal estuaries, lagoons and inland lakes and callows.

Where to See: Ballyallia Lake in County Clare, Little Brosna Callows in County Offaly, Southern Roscommon Lakes in County Roscommon and Lough Rea in County Galway are among the top wintering sites (200-400 birds).

Physical characteristics

The very large, spatulate bill is the most distinguishing feature of the aptly named Northern Shoveler. The male in breeding plumage has bright wings, a bright iridescent-green head with a yellow eye, bold white breast, and chestnut sides. Females, juveniles, and males in eclipse plumage (from May through August) are mottled brown with orange legs and a green-black iridescent speculum with a blue patch on the forewing.

Northern Shovelers rarely tip up, but filter mud through their bills, swimming with their heads outstretched, bills skimming the water's surface, sifting out food. In flight they stay in tight bunches, weaving to and fro like shorebirds. Shovelers are very territorial, and pair bonds remain intact through incubation, unlike most other species of ducks.

Habitat

Northern Shovelers inhabit shallow, marshy ponds and wetlands at low elevations. Breeding habitat is in open country (prairie or tundra), or lowland woodlands and clearings, always near shallow water. During winter and migration they will use virtually any wetland as long as it has muddy edges. Shovelers will forage in sewage ponds and stagnant or polluted waters avoided by other species of ducks.

Other details

Anas clypeata is widespread breeder across much of Europe, which accounts for less than a quarter of its global breeding range. Its European breeding population is large (>170,000 pairs), and was stable between 1970-1990. Although no trend data were available for the stronghold in Russia during 1990-2000, several countries- notably the Netherlands-suffered marked declines, and the species probably underwent a moderate decline (>10%) overall.

This duck inhabits North America and northern Eurasia. For practical reasons its populations of the European Union can be subdivided in two distinct sub-populations, separated by their wintering quarters. The first, totalling about 40000 individuals and apparently stable, is wintering in the Atlantic regions from Denmark to the British Isles and Aquitaine. The second population is estimated at 450000 individuals, but its current trends are unknown. It winters in the Black Sea region, the Mediterranean and West Africa.

Feeding

The bill of the Shoveler is ideally suited for straining small swimming invertebrates from the water and mud. Seeds and aquatic plants are also important food items, especially during winter

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 5,000,000-6,400,000 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

Pair formation begins in the winter and continues during spring migration. Males remain with the females through the incubation period. The female chooses the site (generally in short grass). She builds the nest, a shallow depression made of grass and weeds, lined with down, and incubates the 9 to 12 eggs for 23 to 28 days by herself. A few hours after they hatch, the female leads the young to the water where they can swim and forage immediately. The young typically stay close to the cover of emergent vegetation, and the female tends them until they fledge at 52 to 66 days of age.

Migration

Mostly migratory, breeders of Iceland all migrate, probably to Ireland or Britain. Most British breeders move southwards to south France, south Spain, north and central Italy, a few to North Africa. Bulk have left Britain by end October, before main arrivals of Continental birds. Breeders from south Fenno-Scandia and Russia east to and south migrate west and south-west to western seaboard, chiefly Netherlands, Britain, and Ireland, some going further to west and south France and north Spain. Populations of east Russia, Trans-Urals, and west Siberia migrate south through Volga region, then to south Caspian, Azov and Black Seas, and to Mediterranean, particularly Turkey, Greece, Italy, and North Africa, where overlap with north European breeders. Those wintering from Egypt south to East Africa presumably also from Russia. Main autumn migration rather earlier than other Palearctic ducks, except Garganey. Principal passage across Europe in September-October, with major passage through Britain in November. Departs tropical Africa in February, peak movement through Europe mid-March to mid-April, and virtually all breeders returned by early May.

Mallard Duck - Anas platyrhynchos by Gerald (Wayne) Prout

5

Heck! Where are all the girls?

There were quite a few male Mallards in large groups being chased around by the lucky males who had a female companion.

Mallard Duck - Anas platyrhynchos Order: Anseriformes Family: Anatidae

Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary in Prince George's County, Md. by Chesapeake Bay Program

4

Canada geese visit a marsh at Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary in Upper Marlboro, Md., on Dec. 3, 2010. (Photo by Alicia Pimental/Chesapeake Bay Program)

USAGE REQUEST INFORMATION

The Chesapeake Bay Program's photographic archive is available for media and non-commercial use at no charge.

To request permission, send an email briefly describing the proposed use to requests@chesapeakebay.net. Please do not attach jpegs. Instead, reference the corresponding Flickr URL of the image.

A photo credit mentioning the Chesapeake Bay Program is mandatory. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way or used in any way that suggests approval or endorsement of the Chesapeake Bay Program. Requestors should also respect the publicity rights of individuals photographed, and seek their consent if necessary.

male white-winged scoter by ophis

2 1

Why on beach? Water's edge, S side Tisbury Great Pond, Chilmark, MA 8/13/21

Canada Goose, 21042018, (12) f by Alan Blunden

2

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,

Northern Pintail (Anas acuta) by Brian Carruthers-Dublin-Eire

2

spanwidth min.: 79 cm

spanwidth max.: 87 cm

size min.: 51 cm

size max.: 62 cm

Breeding

incubation min.: 22 days

incubation max.: 24 days

fledging min.: 40 days

fledging max.: 45 days

broods 1

eggs min.: 7

eggs max.: 10

Physical characteristics

Slightly bigger than a mallard, these long-necked and small-headed ducks fly with a curved back pointed wings and a tapering tail, making this the best way to distinguish them from other ducks. The drake Pintail is perhaps the most handsome of our ducks, the very epitome of grace and elegance. His most distinctive identification feature is the wavy white stripe extending up the side of his otherwise brown neck, but birds with their necks hidden can still be told by their white chests, grey bodies, black and yellow undertails and of course, the long spiky tails. The female Pintail lacks the colourful plumage and the tail spike but are still unmistakably elegant, with slender, almost swan-like necks, small plain heads and long slim grey bills. In flight the Pintail looks distinctively slender thanks mainly to their long necks and long pointed tails. In both male and female, it is the white trailing edge to the speculum which is most conspicuous.

Northern Pintails are wary, especially during their flightless stage in late summer, when they are highly secretive. They will forage on land, but find most of their food by dabbling in shallow, muddy water.

Habitat

Small lakes, rivers and shallow freshwater marshes, with dense vegetaion in open country. In winter on coastal lagoons of brackish waters.

Other details

Anas acuta is a widespread breeder in much of northern and parts of central Europe, which accounts for less than a quarter of its global breeding range. Its European breeding population is large (>320,000 pairs), but underwent a large decline between 1970-1990. Although it was stable or increased across much of its European range during 1990-2000, the stronghold population in Russia continued to decline, and the species underwent a moderate decline (>10%) overall.

This duck is breeding in northern Eurasia and North America. For practical reasons its populations of the European Union can be subdivided in two distinct sub-populations, separated by their wintering quarters. The first, totalling about 60000 individuals, is wintering in the Atlantic regions from Denmark to the British Isles and Aquitaine. The second population is estimated at 1200000 individuals. It winters around the Mediterranean and in West Africa. These two populations are not strictly separated and many birds are shifting from one to the other. Nevertheless this species is declining in western Europe, fluctuating in Central Europe and the Mediterranean.

Widespread and common throughout North America, Europe, and Asia, the Northern Pintail is probably one of the most numerous species of duck worldwide. Numbers in North America vary a great deal from year to year, although some surveys have recorded significant, long-term declines since the 1960s. Predators and farming operations destroy many thousands of Northern Pintail nests each year. Farming has also affected nesting habitat. Pintails appear to be responding to new conservation practices, however, including habitat restoration and tighter restrictions on hunting, and numbers seem to be increasing. If these practices are maintained, Northern Pintails should be able to maintain a healthy population in North America.

Feeding

Aquatic plants and crop vegetative, leaves, stems, roots and seeds. Many terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates, amphibians and some small fish in spring and summer. Feeds by dabbling, upending and head-dipping in shallow water. Sometimes grazes on dry land.

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 6,100,000-7,500,000 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

Pairing begins on the wintering grounds and continues through spring migration. Northern Pintails are among the earliest nesters, and arrive on the breeding grounds as soon as they are free of ice (egg laying from november-march) in single pairs or loose groups. The nest is located on dry ground in short vegetation. It is usually near water, but may be up to half a mile away from the nearest body of water. Pintail nests are often more exposed than other ducks' nests. The nest is a shallow depression, built by the female and made of grass, twigs, or leaves, lined with down. Incubation of the 6 to 10 eggs lasts from 21 to 25 days and is done by the female alone. The pair bond dissolves shortly after the female begins incubation, when the males gather in flocks to molt. Within a few hours of hatching, the young follow the female from the nest site. They can feed themselves, but the female continues to tend them until they fledge at 38 to 52 days. In the far north where continuous daylight allows for round-the-clock feeding, the young develop faster. Sexual maturity is reached after one year.

Migration

Highly migratory. Breeders from Iceland winter mainly Britain and Ireland. Breeding populations of north Russia east to north-west Siberia, Fenno-Scandia, and Baltic migrate south-west to winter in the Netherlands and British Isles, movement from former to latter in hard weather. Vast population breeding from Belarus and Russia east to West Siberia winter in Mediterranean and Black Sea areas, and probably West Africa. Major movements away from moult areas and breeding grounds mid-August to early September. Early passage through Europe in August, peak movements mid-September to November, males preceding females due to earlier moult. Further movements under weather influence at any time during winter. Departures from West Africa begin February, from west Europe late February or March; reach tundras late May. Major flyways tend to follow coasts, normally relatively small numbers inland central Europe.

Tundra swan by Chesapeake Bay Program

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A tundra swan visits Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge in Dorchester County, Md.

Alopochen aegyptiacus by Bárbol

Fuengirola Zoo, Málaga, Spain

Chestnut Teal, male by Kerrie Brailsford

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Anas castanea

The male is easily identified, having a glossy green head & chestnut neck & breast.The upper body and wings are dark brown, and undertail is black with a white patch.

He & his mate had young ones last year at this same pond. They don't seem to stray too far, as I have seen them there regularly.

Common Goldeneye Duck - Sesekinika Lake - Grenfell Township - Ontario by Gerald (Wayne) Prout

Common Goldeneye Ducks photogrphed on Sesekinika Lake located in Grenfell Township in Northern Ontario Canada

Common Golden Eye Duck - Bucephala clangula Order: Anseriformes Family: Anatidae

Canada Goose, 21042018, (3) f by Alan Blunden

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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,

18 Schrevenpark: Spießente by Rüdiger Stehn

Erpel der Art Anas acuta (Northern pintail) auf dem Schreventeich im Schrevenpark/Kiel

2022_12_20_5DMk4_83448 by Doug's Graphics

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Mexican Ducks (Anas diazi)

Bosque del Apache NWR

(Anseriformes: Anatidae) Anas crecca ♂, Kricka / Teal by Rickard Holgersson

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#348 Lesser Scaup by Brian Smith

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Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Aves

Order: Anseriformes

Family: Anatidae

Genus: Aythya

Species: Aythya affinis

La Chua Trail, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, Gainesville, Florida, USA

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Welcome to my Flickr 365 Project! I’m calling it my 365 Species Project, because for each day of the year, I will post a photo of a different species of organism... My goal was to accomplish all of this in 2013, but I soon found out that it was more daunting a task than I'd realized. Instead, my new goal is to get through 365 by the end of 2014, still an impressive average of a new species every other day for two years.

We're in the home stretch, now!!! It's December, which means I'm down to my last 31 days to get it all done in 2 years. Somewhat unfortunately, I'm getting slammed at the end of my first semester in graduate school, so the project has really dropped toward the bottom of the old priority list. Nonetheless, I'm going to do my best to get them all in under the wire. Excuse the massive posts!

Anas Platyrhyncos ♂ by Gabriel Paladino Ibáñez

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Pato doméstico (híbrido)

Domestic Duck (hybrid)

Canteras del Parque Rodó, Montevideo, Uruguay

Scientific classification

Kingdom:Animalia

Phylum:Chordata

Class:Aves

Order:Anseriformes

Family:Anatidae

Genus:Anas

Species:Anas platyrhynchos

6-Traído desde la meca de los patos Mandarines( China) de donde es oriundo!! Fuí muy lejos a buscarle este novio a mi amiga Liliana ( Tormasol), pues anoche le conseguí uno y como que no le gustó mucho!! by José Miguel Pantaleón Inoa

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Orden:Anseriformes

Familia:Anatidae

Género:Aix

Nombre común: Pato mandarín macho

Nombre científico:Aix galericulata

Nombre en Ingles:Mandarín Duck male

Lugar de Captura. Beijing, China

Por: Cimarron mayor Panta.

DSC00770.jpg by Tony Spane

MAD13_03087a by Jerry Oldenettel

Bernier's Teal at the Betsiboka estuary, Mahajunga, Madagascar, 131125. Anas bernieri . Anseriformes: Anatidae. AKA Madagascar Teal.

2019_03_15_5DMk4_02434 by Doug's Graphics

Uncommon winter visitor to NM

Barrow's Goldeneye

Jouvenile Drake

Rio Grande, Rio Arriba County, NM

CANADA GOOSE Fluffing its Feathers (at Dharma Centre of Canada) by Lama Lodro

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Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) soaking up the sunshine and relaxing in the peaceful waters of Union Creek.

Branta canadensis = Canada Goose

Branta = genus (black geese)

Anatidae = zoological family (ducks, geese, swans)

Anseriformes = zoological order

This was a quick hand-held snapshot taken in a canoe in Union Creek at the Dharma Centre of Canada, Kinmount, Ontario.

2023_01_14_5DMk4_89080 by Doug's Graphics

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Black Brant with Canada Geese and Hooded Merganser

Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, NM

Pink-footed Geese (Anser brachyrhynchus) by Brian Carruthers-Dublin-Eire

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spanwidth min.: 137 cm

spanwidth max.: 161 cm

size min.: 64 cm

size max.: 76 cm

Breeding

incubation min.: 26 days

incubation max.: 27 days

fledging min.: 52 days

fledging max.: 60 days

broods 1

eggs min.: 3

eggs max.: 6

Physical characteristics

Medium-sized, rather compact, rather short-billed and short-necked, essentially pinkish-grey goose, with dark, round head and foreneck and pale forewing obvious in flight. Bill marks and legs pink.

Habitat

Concentrated largely in the Atlantic sector of west Palearctic. The presence in breeding habitat (up to 700 m above sea) is limited to brief and uncertain ice-free period. Strict attachment to parts of apparently suitable terrain, at mean densities above 130 nests per square km. Preference in Iceland for inaccessible nest-sites in river gorges suggests safety from ground predators is a primary requirement. Apparent inconsistency of wide-spread grouping of oasis nests on low heathy mounds or ridges perhaps due to relative failure of such predators to reach these seasonally uninhabitable uplands. In Spitsbergen, where predation of Arctic Fox is minimal, nest on flat ground or grassy slopes when snow-free at laying time, as well as low cliffs and rock outcrops.

Other details

Anser brachyrhynchus breeds only in Svalbard, Iceland and east Greenland, with the entire global breeding range hence confined to Europe. The European breeding population is relatively small (<69,000 pairs), but increased substantially between 1970-1990. All three populations continued to increase during 1990-2000, and the species underwent a moderate increase overall.

This goose has two distinct populations. Both have undergone an important increase since the 1950's. The first population is breeding in Iceland and Greenland, and wintering in Scotland and northern England. It amounts to 225000 individuals. The second population is breeding on Svalbard and wintering in Denmark, the Netherlands and Belgium. It amounts to 34000 individuals

Feeding

Vegetable material, including parts of plants both above and below ground. Feeds like Greylag Goose, though much less commonly in water, and smaller Bill and gizzard tend to restrict it to softer material. In summer quarters, eats green parts, roots, and fruits of wide variety of tundra plants. In winter quarters, now feeds mainly on farmland, including grassland, but exact composition of diet differs according to local, seasonal, and annual variations in crop-plant availability.

Breeding

Egg-laying in Iceland from early or mid-May, in Spitsbergen laying starts last half May and completed first half June. The nest is build in low hummocks and banks snow-free at time of building, and above post-thaw floods. Also tops of rock outcrops, ledges on river gorge cliffs, and tops of rock pinnacles in gorges. The nest consists of low mound of grasses, sedges and other vegetation, with shallow cup. Large amounts of down added during and after laying. Clutch is usually usually 3-6, incubation lasts 26-27 days and the goslings will flegde after about 56 days.

Migration

Migratory, Greenland and Icelandic populations winter mostly in Scotland and N and E England; Svalbard birds winter along E shores of N Sea. Sporadically in more southern latitudes during cold winters.

2020_02_20_5DMk4_10884 by Doug's Graphics

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Common Goldeneye

Oakland, CA

Greylag Geese (Anser anser) by Brian Carruthers-Dublin-Eire