Southern Pochard

100

Not yet spotted on Fladder

The Southern Pochard is a medium-sized diving duck found in sub-Saharan Africa and scattered regions of South America. The male is easily recognizable by its reddish-brown head and neck and striking red eyes.

Where to spot

Found in sub-Saharan Africa and scattered regions of South America. It inhabits freshwater lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers with emergent vegetation and open water areas.

How to spot

Look for them on open water bodies where they often feed by diving. Males have strikingly bright red eyes and a reddish-brown head and neck. Females are duller brown but also have a dark cap and paler cheeks. Observe their diving behavior.

When to spot

Year-round in its native range. Local movements may occur in response to water availability and food resources.

Where to spot

Found in sub-Saharan Africa and scattered regions of South America. It inhabits freshwater lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers with emergent vegetation and open water areas.

How to spot

When to spot

Year-round in its native range. Local movements may occur in response to water availability and food resources.

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Unlike many duck species that nest on land, the Southern Pochard often builds a floating nest anchored to emergent vegetation over water, providing a safer environment for its eggs and young.

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