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What is Marbled Duck?

10-12-2024

11:30 AM

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1 min read
What is Marbled Duck? Blog Image

Overview:

Bird enthusiasts recently spotted a marbled duck — an unusual winter migrant at Sultanpur National Park after 30 years.

About Marbled Duck:

  • The Marbled Duck, also known as marbled teal, is a relatively small duck characterized by its black bill, pale-spotted gray-brown plumage, dark eye patch, and the absence of a speculum.
  • Scientific Name: Marmaronetta angustirostris
  • Distribution: It is distributed throughout the central and southwestern Palearctic in several highly fragmented populations that stretch from Central Asia to northwest Africa and the Iberian Peninsula.
  • Migratory Patterns: Populations in colder regions migrate south during winter,reaching areas like North Africa and the Indian subcontinent.
  • Habitat:
    • It is typically found in temporary or semi-permanent wetlands, although it is ultimately tolerant of many types of wetlands, both natural and artificial, provided they offer shallow areas.
    • It tends to prefer brackish wetlands over fresh or saline ones, and well-structured vegetation.
  • It is a gregarious, non-territorial, and non-aggressive species. 
  • Marbled ducks are usually monogamous. Pairs form every year, starting in autumn. 
  • They fly low and slowly and have noticeably long necks and wings. They are easily identifiable in flight.
  • IUCN Red List Status: Near Threatened

Q1: What is IUCN?

The International Union for Conservation of Nature is a global organization composed of governments, NGOs, scientists, and experts dedicated to conserving nature and promoting sustainability. Its primary role involves assessing the conservation status of species, providing data and analysis on the state of biodiversity worldwide, and offering guidance and frameworks for conservation efforts.

News: Rare winter guest: Marbled duck spotted at Sultanpur park after 30 years