Identification
Large bird that appears black and white from a distance or in inappropriate lighting. The male can be distinguished from the female by the red bump at the base of his beak. This is a formation on the beaks of other birds (see Swan) that probably serves as an advertisement of the good health and maturity of the male. Also from the narrower brownish band on the breast. Beak and legs red. Juveniles are white-brown with brown beaks and legs. It flies with quick wing beats and will often be seen swimming.
Distribution - Habitat
Species of Europe and Asia with resident populations and winter migrants to the northern coast of Africa and southern coast of Asia, respectively.
Interesting Information
- It feeds on aquatic invertebrates (molluscs, snails, crustaceans and insects), small fish and plant material.
- Over 60,000 mosquito larvae were found in the stomach of a bird in northern Europe.
- It mainly feeds at night, for up to 12 hours (!) in winter when it must have reserves to survive the cold.
- It belongs to the same family as the Ruddy shelduck.
