Common Shelduck

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Spotted

The Common Shelduck is a large, colorful waterfowl with striking white, black, chestnut, and green iridescent plumage. It has a bright red bill, with males sporting a prominent knob during breeding season.

Where to spot

Widespread across coastal Europe and Asia, breeding along coasts and inland waterways, and wintering in estuaries and sheltered coasts. Look for them in intertidal zones, saltmarshes, and estuaries.

How to spot

Its bold plumage pattern of white, black, and chestnut, along with a bright red bill, makes it unmistakable. Look for them dabbling in shallow water or grazing on mudflats. Males have a noticeable knob on their bill during spring.

When to spot

Can be observed year-round in many parts of its range. Breeding season is from spring to early summer, with large flocks gathering in late summer for moult.

Where to spot

Widespread across coastal Europe and Asia, breeding along coasts and inland waterways, and wintering in estuaries and sheltered coasts. Look for them in intertidal zones, saltmarshes, and estuaries.

How to spot

When to spot

Can be observed year-round in many parts of its range. Breeding season is from spring to early summer, with large flocks gathering in late summer for moult.

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Credits: AidanSemmens

Common Shelducks often nest in rabbit burrows or other underground cavities, a unique behavior among waterfowl. The female will sometimes lead newly hatched ducklings on long journeys to feeding grounds.

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