Common name: Red-crested Pochard (البط احمر العرف)
Scientific name: Netta rufina
Family: Anatidae

Size:
Body length: 53–57 cm
Wingspan: 84–88 cm
Weight: 900–1,500 g

Identification:
A large and distinctive diving duck. The male is unmistakable with a bright orange, rounded head, vivid red bill, black chest, and pale flanks, creating a bold contrast. The female is more subdued, with a warm brown body, darker crown, pale cheeks, and a dark bill. In flight, both sexes show a broad white wing stripe.

Habitat:
Freshwater lakes, reservoirs, ponds, and sheltered wetlands with abundant aquatic vegetation. Prefers calm waters where it can dive for food, often staying in open water away from dense shoreline cover.

Status in the UAE:
Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Recorded in suitable freshwater habitats such as Al Qudra Lakes and other inland wetlands, usually in small numbers.

Diet:
Omnivorous — primarily feeds on aquatic plants, seeds, and algae, but also takes small invertebrates. Forages mainly by diving underwater.

Behavior:
A strong swimmer and diver, often seen in small groups on open water. Generally quiet and less active than dabbling ducks, spending long periods resting or diving. During migration, it may associate with other duck species.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)