One of the 2 shelducks on WAnimals
Birds · Anseriformes · Anatidae
Ruddy Shelduck
Tadorna ferruginea
Least Concern
The species is abundant and widely distributed; it faces no significant short-term risk.
A member of the duck family intermediate in build between a duck and a goose, with uniform orange-chestnut plumage and a paler, almost cream head and neck. The wing coverts are white and contrast strongly in flight with the black flight feathers and tail. The bill and legs are blackish. The male wears a fine black collar, more marked in summer; the female usually has a white patch on the face.
Weight
1.1 kg – 1.6 kg
Size
58 cm – 70 cm
Diet
Omnivore
Combines animal and plant food depending on availability.
