Birds
File:Tadorna cana, Avis Dam, Windhoek, Namibia 321900847.jpg

South African Shelduck

South African Shelduck

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The South African Shelduck (*Tadorna cana*) is a large, striking waterfowl endemic to Southern Africa. Known for its distinctive grey plumage, chestnut underparts, and the male's grey head, it is a common sight across its range.
Where to spot
Commonly found in Southern Africa, particularly in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. It prefers open country near water, including dams, reservoirs, rivers, and estuaries.
How to spot
Look for its distinctive plumage: males have an all-grey head, while females have a white face with a black crown. They are often seen in pairs or small family groups. They frequently graze on short grass near water and may be found resting on shorelines or sandbanks.
When to spot
Observable year-round within its range. Breeding typically occurs during the dry season, when water levels are lower, making them easier to spot.
File:Tadorna cana, Avis Dam, Windhoek, Namibia 321900847.jpg
File:Tadorna cana, Cannon Rocks, Eastern Cape, South Africa 318512728.jpg
File:Tadorna cana, Etosha NP, Namibia 311071331.jpg
File:Tadorna cana, Etosha NP, Namibia 311071339.jpg
File:Tadorna cana, Glen Ambrose, Eastern Cape, South Africa 338216983.jpg
File:Tadorna cana, Nieuwoudtville, Northern Cape, South Africa 268970124.jpg
File:Tadorna cana, Piketberg, Western Cape, South Africa 259185778.jpg
File:Tadorna cana, Piketberg, Western Cape, South Africa 263265374.jpg
File:Tadorna cana - 01.jpg
File:Tadorna cana, Avis Dam, Windhoek, Namibia 321900847.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Tadorna cana, Cannon Rocks, Eastern Cape, South Africa 318512728.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Tadorna cana, Etosha NP, Namibia 311071331.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Tadorna cana, Etosha NP, Namibia 311071339.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Tadorna cana, Glen Ambrose, Eastern Cape, South Africa 338216983.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Tadorna cana, Nieuwoudtville, Northern Cape, South Africa 268970124.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Tadorna cana, Piketberg, Western Cape, South Africa 259185778.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Tadorna cana, Piketberg, Western Cape, South Africa 263265374.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Tadorna cana - 01.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Unlike many ducks, the female South African Shelduck is more brightly colored than the male, sporting a white face and dark cap.
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