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Psilos
Bird Photography |
Pochard (Aythya
ferina) |
This is one of my favourite ducks to be
found in the UK. The male (below) displays a wonderful contrast of colours,
whilst the female is a much drabber brown. It is fairly widespread but
is not a common breeder. Forms large flocks in winter. Small and compact
this is a diving duck that feeds on aquatic plants. Size 44-48cm (17-19in) |
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The female is much duller than the male
and can be more variable in colour. |
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The photo above shows a pair of wild pochard
on the mere at Martinmere during the winter months. These birds are
all migratory and will not stay. The photo below shows a pair of Pochard
immediately after they have mated, April 3rd 05. Both take up this head
bobbing posture for about 10 seconds before going their seperate ways. |
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Female Pochards can be rather variable.
Some being darker than others. The two photos below a particularly dark
form female. |
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Mid July and there are quite a few young
Pochard ducklings on Swanlake at Martinmere. The one below is about
5 days old. |
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