Falcated Duck

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Spotted

The Falcated Duck is a distinctive dabbling duck native to East Asia, named for the elongated, sickle-shaped tertial feathers of the breeding male. Males have a striking bronze-brown head with an iridescent green patch on the nape and a prominent crest. Females are mottled brown, similar to other female dabblers.

Where to spot

Breeds in eastern Russia, northern China, and Mongolia. Winters in warmer parts of East Asia, including Japan, South Korea, and southern China, often in freshwater lakes, rivers, and rice paddies.

How to spot

Identify breeding males by their unique sickle-shaped tertial feathers and iridescent green and bronze head. Females are brown with a relatively long neck and a small head. Look for them feeding in shallow water, often dabbling.

When to spot

Best observed during the wintering season (October-March) in East Asia, when large concentrations can be found. Also visible during spring and autumn migration periods.

Where to spot

Breeds in eastern Russia, northern China, and Mongolia. Winters in warmer parts of East Asia, including Japan, South Korea, and southern China, often in freshwater lakes, rivers, and rice paddies.

How to spot

When to spot

Best observed during the wintering season (October-March) in East Asia, when large concentrations can be found. Also visible during spring and autumn migration periods.

Credits: Tim Sträter

Credits: By © Francis C. Franklin / CC-BY-SA-3.0, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=31906311

The Falcated Duck is known for its graceful, long-necked appearance and the striking 'falcate' (sickle-shaped) inner wing feathers of the male, which give it its name.

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