Bird
Bird
Southern Pochard
Netta erythrophthalma
The Southern Pochard is a diving duck present in Trinidad's freshwater wetlands, one of the few South American waterfowl species with a striking red eye in males, a feature reflected in its scientific name.
The Southern Pochard is a diving duck present in Trinidad's freshwater wetlands, one of the few South American waterfowl species with a striking red eye in males, a feature reflected in its scientific name.
Identification
A medium-sized diving duck around 43 to 51 cm long. Males are largely blackish with a purplish sheen on the head and a distinctive bright red eye; females are duller brown with a dark eye and a pale patch near the bill base. Both sexes have a broad, flattened bill typical of diving ducks.
Behaviour
Dives for aquatic vegetation, seeds, and invertebrates in freshwater lakes, ponds, and marshes, generally favouring deeper open water than dabbling ducks. It is a strong swimmer and diver, less often seen dabbling at the surface, and typically occurs in small groups.
Status in T&T
Present in freshwater wetlands across Trinidad, generally uncommon. Not considered threatened. It is protected as native wildlife under the Conservation of Wildlife Act.
