What am I?
A plump diving duck, smaller than a mallard. You’ll often spy them paddling on the water before diving down to feed on waterweed, snails and other aquatic invertebrates.
Pochard
Pochard
Conservation Status: 🔴 Red
How to Identify Me
Most likely to be spotted during the winter months, the easiest way to identify a pochard is by the male’s vibrant chestnut head, black chest and rear. Females have similar markings, albeit with a darker, duller grey-brown hue.
How Can You Help Me?
Pochards were once a common sight on our shores but their numbers have significantly declined with very few breeding in the UK at present.
Make sure you give them lots of space if you see them diving and foraging for food and keep dogs close by and not chasing them on riverbanks or in the water.
Also ensure to keep your ears and eyes peeled for distress calls or birds becoming aware of your presence.