News: For over 20 years, residents of Mudh village in Ladakh have been protecting the Ruddy shelduck that visits Ladakh during breeding season.
About Ruddy Shelduck
- The Ruddy shelduck is a large and brightly colored waterfowl known for its orange-brown body and loud, honking call. They are also called the Brahminy duck.
- Scientific name: Tadorna ferruginea
- Habitat: They usually live near inland water bodies such as lakes, rivers, reservoirs, marshes, and wetlands.
- Distribution: They are widely distributed across Europe, Central Asia, and parts of North Africa.
- Most populations are migratory and move to South Asia during the winter months.
- Note: Ladakh is the only breeding site for Ruddy shelduck in India.
- Appearance: The male can be identified by a narrow black ring around its neck, while the female has a paler head and lacks the black collar.
- Behaviour: They are social birds and are often seen in pairs or small groups.
- Large flocks may gather during winter or molting periods.
- They are monogamous and form strong pair bonds that may last for life.
- They are nocturnal and highly vocal with loud, nasal honking calls.
- Diet: They are omnivores and feed on grasses, plant shoots, grains, aquatic plants, and small invertebrates.
- Threat: Habitat loss and hunting
- Conservation status
- IUCN Red List: Least Concern
