This duck formerly bred in large numbers in the Mediterranean region, but is now western European populations are restricted to a few sites in southern Spain, Northwest Africa and in Israel. Its breeding habitat is lowland where they lay their eggs in long grass or in high trees.
Key ID Features:
A very pale, slender duck with slightly darker mottled upperparts and flanks.
It has a long slender dark bill and a dark eye mask.
In flight dark tipped white underwings can be seen.
Overview
Scientific name: Marmaronetta angustirostris
Family: Swans, ducks and geese (Anatidae)
Where to see them:
Very rare in UK but occasional escapees can be found, although no breeding success has occurred.
Seen in UK:
Rarely.
What they eat
Little is known of the diet of this duck which both dabbles and dives for food.
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Photographer: Tim Tapley
