The critically endangered Madagascar Pochard is one of the world's rarest birds, a diving duck that was once thought extinct before its rediscovery.
Where to spot
Extremely restricted to a single high-altitude lake, Lake Matsaborimena, in Madagascar. Observations in the wild are exceedingly rare and generally require specialized conservation access.
How to spot
Requires dedicated expeditions to its very specific, remote habitat. Look for a small, dark diving duck with a distinctive round head, dark plumage, and (in males) a pale yellow eye. Its behavior involves prolonged diving in deep water.
When to spot
Potentially year-round at its specific habitat, but due to its critically low numbers, any sighting is exceptional.
Where to spot
Extremely restricted to a single high-altitude lake, Lake Matsaborimena, in Madagascar. Observations in the wild are exceedingly rare and generally require specialized conservation access.
How to spot
Requires dedicated expeditions to its very specific, remote habitat. Look for a small, dark diving duck with a distinctive round head, dark plumage, and (in males) a pale yellow eye. Its behavior involves prolonged diving in deep water.
When to spot
Potentially year-round at its specific habitat, but due to its critically low numbers, any sighting is exceptional.
Rediscovered in 2006 on a single isolated lake, this species' population numbered only a few individuals, prompting intensive conservation efforts including captive breeding and reintroduction programs.
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