This winter so far has been very good
for duck on the percolation pond with high counts of various species including
Ferruginous Ducks. The Ferruginous Duck is an uncommon passage migrant, winter visitor and a
rare breeder with most birds occurring from September
to April. The species is currently listed as Near Threatened and prefers
shallower and more vegetated areas than other Aythya
species and seldom sits out on open water. Sightings have been scarce and irregular
on the ‘patch’ in the four years I have been in Saudi Arabia although this year
has seen good numbers with 16 in September and birds seen daily since this time
until mid-December. Numbers have decreased and now about five birds remain
where they spend most of their time hidden in the reed beds. Due to their behaviour
it is difficult to get good photographs of them but on Friday I was lucky to
see one swim out of the reeds and into open water at a reasonable range and
managed to get my best photos yet of the species. The colour of these birds is
really beautiful especially when the sun is shining on them and they are always
a pleasure to see.
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| Ferruginous Duck |