Alternative Names (Synonyms)

Names for newly-hatched

Names for non-breeding males or other colour-phases

References

Species Author

Major References

Aviculture references:
B29, B30, B31, B40, B94, B97, B128.w1, B129
D1, D8

Other References

TAXA Group (where information has been collated for an entire group on a modular basis)

Parent Group

• Waterfowl
• Pochards
• White-eyes

Specific Needs Group referenced in Management Techniques

• Dabbling Ducks (V.w5)

Aviculture Information

Notes

• Pochards are diving ducks which spend most of their time on water, and are ungainly on land. They are generally hardy, sociable and easy to maintain in captivity. They should be kept with deep water available for diving, three to seven feet suggested (B29), or at least half the area 60cm and preferably one metre deep (D1), with shallow sloping banks for easy exit from the water, also islands, good marginal vegetation and loafing areas. Water providing a good supply of natural animal and vegetable food is preferred.
• These ducks may be kept in mixed collections with dabbling ducks, including smaller species such as teal. They should be fed wheat in water, encouraging their natural diving behaviour. Pellets should also be fed. They may breed better if a group rather than single pair kept, as this allows their normal group displaying activity.
• 12x12x14 inch (30x30x35cm) nest box with 5 inch (12.5cm) entrance hole suggested, placed under cover at the edge of the pond (B128.w1).

(B29, B40, B94, B128.w1, D1)

Species-specific information:

• Ferruginous pochard are winter-hardy, although they should be wintered on ice-free water or shelter provided. Suitable for mixed collections, they are generally peaceable but drakes may fight one another in breeding season. Grain, pellets, bread and green food such as duckweed should be provided; some natural food will be available if they are kept on a deep pond with a muddy bottom.
• These ducks are fairly easy to breed, provide nest baskets above water and nest boxes in secluded areas in bankside vegetation, laying from late May (B31); April to June (B29). They incubate well and the ducklings are usually easy to hand rear and willing to take food. Duckweed and live invertebrates are useful to supplement starter crumbs.
• This species commonly hybridises with Aythya spp., Anas spp., all three Netta spp., and Bucephala clangula - Common goldeneye; hybrids have also been reported with Anas spp. and Aix sponsa - Wood duck.

(B29, B30, B31, B40, B94, B97, B129).

Aviornis UK Ringing Scheme suggested average closed ring size: K 10.0mm. (D8).

Management Techniques

Measurement & Weight

Head

Legs

Plumage

Eclipse: Similar to female but redder head and breast.

Newly-hatched Characteristics

Nest placement and structure

Egg clutches

Incubation

Hatching

Fledging

Sexual Maturity

Feeding Behaviour

Parental Behaviour

Independent by fledging time.

Social Behaviour

Sexual Behaviour

Predation in Wild

Activity Patterns

Adults

Newly-hatched

Distribution and Movement (Migration etc.)

Fragmented, western Europe east to western Mongolia, also isolated populations from Liberia eastward to north-east Pakistan.

Migrate to Mediterranean (local population sedentary), sub-Saharan Africa, Caspian Sea (south shores), Middle East, Indian sub-continent, south-east Asia.

Britain (small numbers each year), Ireland, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Belgium, Canary Islands, Cape Verde Islands.

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Habitat

Intraspecific variation

Conservation Status

Vulnerable (B44.9.w1). Population has declined (B1).

Captive Populations

Trade