The South African shelduck or Cape shelduck is a species of shelduck, a group of large goose-like birds in the bird family Anatidae, which includes the swans, geese and ducks. This is a common species native to southern Africa.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs chiefly in South Africa and Namibia, with populations extending into Botswana and southwestern Zimbabwe. Favors open, semi-arid to arid landscapes with access to water, including seasonal pans, farm dams, rivers, and brackish lagoons. Breeds near wetlands in sparsely vegetated country and often uses burrows or cavities for nesting. Outside the breeding season it gathers at large lakes and estuaries to molt. It tolerates human-modified habitats and is frequently seen on agricultural land.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the Cape shelduck, this striking waterfowl often nests in old burrows, especially those dug by aardvarks. Pairs are strongly territorial in the breeding season but gather in large flocks at traditional molting sites. In flight it shows a bold white wing panel and green speculum. The female’s sharp, higher-pitched call contrasts with the male’s deeper honk.
Tadorna cana egg, MHNT.
Temperament
alert and moderately wary; territorial in breeding season
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flier with rapid wingbeats and swift, purposeful movements
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups while breeding, with strong pair bonds and nest defense. Nests are often in burrows or cavities, commonly old aardvark or porcupine holes, lined with down. After breeding, birds gather at traditional molting sites in large flocks, where they are flightless for several weeks.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Loud and vocal; males give deeper honking notes, while females produce sharper, higher-pitched, carrying calls. Duets are common when pairs are alarmed or defending territory.
Plumage
Large, goose-like shelduck with grey to grey-brown body and rich chestnut flanks and underparts; bold white upperwing patch contrasts with dark flight feathers and green speculum.
Diet
Feeds by grazing and dabbling on aquatic plants, grasses, and seeds. Also takes algae, bulbs, and agricultural grains when available. Supplements with aquatic invertebrates such as insects, mollusks, and small crustaceans, especially during breeding when protein needs increase.
Preferred Environment
Forages along the margins of shallow lakes, pans, and slow rivers, as well as flooded fields and pastures. Frequently grazes in adjacent farmland and short-grass plains near water.
