The red-crested pochard is a large diving duck. The scientific name is derived from Greek Netta "duck", and Latin rufina, "golden-red". Its breeding habitat is lowland marshes and lakes in southern Europe and it extends from the steppe and semi-desert areas on the Black Sea to Central Asia and Mongolia, wintering in the Indian Subcontinent and Africa. It is somewhat migratory, and northern birds winter further south into north Africa.
Region
Southern Europe and Central Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds on lowland marshes and large, vegetated lakes from the Iberian Peninsula and southern France east through the Black Sea region to Central Asia and Mongolia. In winter it moves south to the Mediterranean basin, the Middle East, the Indian Subcontinent, and North Africa. Prefers eutrophic lakes with extensive reedbeds and open water. Uses reservoirs, floodplains, and sheltered coastal lagoons outside the breeding season.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
The red-crested pochard is a striking diving duck, with males showing a rounded orange-red head, bright red bill, and bold white flanks against a black chest. Females are subtler, in warm brown tones with a pale cheek patch. They dive and upend for food but also graze near emergent vegetation. In winter, large flocks gather on big lakes and coastal lagoons.
Egg, collection Museum Wiesbaden
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often forms medium to large flocks, especially outside the breeding season. Pairs form in late winter; nesting occurs in dense reedbeds or low waterside vegetation, with a shallow down-lined nest near water. Females incubate and lead broods; males typically depart once incubation begins.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet; males give thin, whistling calls during display, while females utter harsher quacks and grating notes. Courtship involves soft whistles and head-shaking displays.
