RUDDY SHELDUCK
Tadorna ferruginea
DESCRIPTION
The Ruddy Shelduck is a medium-sized waterfowl known for its striking orange-brown plumage and distinctive pale head. Males and females are similar in appearance, but males tend to have a slightly brighter coloration. They are often found in pairs or small groups, and are known for their graceful flight and strong swimming abilities.
FUN FACTS
- Ruddy Shelducks are known for their unique courtship displays, which include synchronized swimming and vocalizations that strengthen pair bonds
- They are also migratory birds, traveling long distances between breeding and wintering grounds, which can be quite impressive given their size and habitat preferences
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
Average Weight1.0-1.5 kg
Average Length60-70 cm
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social StructureThey are typically found in pairs or small groups, especially during the breeding season.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (March-May)
- Habitat
- Ruddy Shelducks inhabit a variety of wetland environments, including lakes, rivers, and marshes. They prefer areas with abundant vegetation for foraging and nesting.
- Biomes
- Wetlands, Grasslands
- Native Range
- They are native to parts of Central Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and Eastern Europe.
- Continent
- Asia, Europe
- Countries
- India, Nepal, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Turkey
- Diet
- Ruddy Shelducks primarily feed on grasses, seeds, and aquatic plants, but they also consume insects and small invertebrates. Their diet varies seasonally based on availability.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- grasses, seeds, aquatic plants
- Social Structure
- They are typically found in pairs or small groups, especially during the breeding season.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 2-10
- Territorial
- 0
VU
1.0-1.5 kg
Weight
60-70 cm
Length
- Coloration
- The plumage is predominantly orange-brown with a pale head and neck.
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 4-8
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (March-May)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 50,000-100,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to agriculture and urbanization, as well as hunting in some regions. Climate change also poses a risk to their wetland habitats.
- Predators
- Foxes, large birds of prey, and domestic dogs are known to prey on Ruddy Shelduck eggs and young.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They often rely on their ability to fly quickly and their camouflage to evade predators.
- Compatible Animals
- Other waterfowl species, such as ducks and geese
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon