Common name: Red-crested Pochard
Scientific name: Netta rufina
Family: Anatidae

Size:
Body length: 53–57 cm
Wingspan: 84–88 cm
Weight: 900–1500 g

Identification:
A large, distinctive diving duck. The male is unmistakable with a rounded orange head, bright red bill, black breast, pale flanks, and white sides. The female is more subdued, with a brown head, pale cheeks, and grey-brown body. Both sexes have a robust body and a relatively large head compared to other ducks.

Habitat:
Lakes, reservoirs, lagoons, and slow-moving freshwater bodies with abundant vegetation.

Status in the UAE:
Winter visitor. Uncommon but regularly recorded in suitable wetlands.

Diet:
Herbivorous — feeds mainly on aquatic plants, seeds, and algae.

Behavior:
A diving duck, often submerging to feed rather than dabbling. Usually seen in small groups or mixed flocks with other ducks. Strong swimmer and diver. Takes off from water with a running start.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)