Monday 28 December 2009

Red-crested Pochard

During my recent park visit I was fortunate to catch up with a pair of Red-Crested Pochard (Netta rufina) that are regular migrants to UK in autumn and winter.

The male, in breeding plumage is very distinctive with its white flanks, coral-red bill plus the rusty-orange head which is paler on the crown compared to the more numerous Common Pochard (Aythya ferina). Unfortunately this male didn't want to come too close but his partner was far more inquisitive.

The female is easily distinguised by its rounded head, red eye and pinkish tip to the bill.


17 comments:

  1. Really good images Frank. Nice capture.

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  2. Outstanding images of a wonderful species.

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  3. Lovely shot of the female Frank.

    Like you, I've always found them more co-operative for pictures, than the male.

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  4. ...the male is spectacular looking and the female is so pretty. I really like her understated colors... The seem to love that cold water!

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  5. Rare bird down here in Cornwall Frank, still trying to catch up with one. Congratulations great shots and great post thanks.

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  6. Frank, Gorgeous bird. Beautiful images! Happy New Year

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  7. well done on the photography today frank. Smashing pics.

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  8. I have to say... that's a cute duck!!

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  9. Fantastic couple of images Frank,lucky you.
    Rare sight in Cornwall,so when you've finninsh with them send them on.
    Happy New Year,great birding for 2010.

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  10. FANTASTIC shots; specially the last one...this wonderful birds seems to smile.....I just love it!
    have a great day!
    elvira

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  11. Beautiful colors on both birds.

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  12. Wow, don't think I've ever heard of a pochard...such pretty ducks! Very nice photos!

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  13. lovely pics of the pochard - gorgeous bird, and not one that appears in my neighborhood. Thanks for all your kind comments on my blog - happy new year.

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  14. For once the female is almost as pretty as the male..such a sweet looking eye on her! Maybe she knows she is a looker, too!
    Wonderful shots of these birds..

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  15. Great shots of the Pochards, which would be lifers for me...thank you for posting!

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  16. Great shots Frank! The water looks cold! I love all your wintery shots below and really love the deer header! Thanks Frank!

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  17. Hi "Early Birders". Sorry for the delay in responding but a few hick-ups with the laptop.

    Steve B, Keith, Kelly. Monty, Mary, Warren, Heather, JRandSue, Elvira, Mick, Jann, Chris P, Tina, Susan & Eve.

    Thanks for all your comments and Happy New Year to you all. FAB.

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I hope you enjoyed your visit and I always appreciate your comments and feedback.

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