Common name: Ruddy Shelduck (شهرمانة حمراء)
Scientific name: Tadorna ferruginea
Family: Anatidae

Size:
Body length: 58–70 cm
Wingspan: 110–135 cm
Weight: approximately 1.2–1.6 kg

Identification:
A large and distinctive orange-buff waterfowl with a pale head and neck, contrasting black flight feathers, and a bold white patch on the wings that becomes obvious in flight. The body appears rich cinnamon-orange, while the tail and primaries are black. During the breeding season, males develop a narrow black collar at the base of the neck, which females usually lack. The species has a strong, upright posture and long legs, giving it a goose-like appearance typical of shelducks. Its loud, honking calls are often heard when pairs are in flight.

Habitat:
Prefers lakes, reservoirs, rivers, wetlands, and coastal lagoons. Across its breeding range it is often associated with steppe lakes and open landscapes, but it may also occur on inland water bodies and sheltered coastal areas during migration and winter. It sometimes nests far from water in burrows, rocky crevices, or abandoned structures.

Status in the UAE:
Rare winter visitor and passage migrant. Small numbers occasionally appear at inland wetlands, reservoirs, and coastal lagoons during the cooler months. Records are irregular and usually involve single birds or small groups, making it an uncommon but notable species for birdwatchers in the Emirates.

Diet:
Omnivorous — feeds on aquatic plants, grasses, seeds, insects, crustaceans, small fish, and other invertebrates. It often forages by grazing along shorelines or dabbling in shallow water.

Behavior:
Usually seen in pairs or small groups and known for forming strong long-term pair bonds. The species is often active during early morning and evening, feeding along the edges of water bodies or in nearby fields. When disturbed, it flies strongly with steady wingbeats and frequently gives loud calls in flight.

Conservation status:
Listed as Least Concern globally due to its wide distribution and large population. However, in the UAE it remains an uncommon visitor with irregular sightings during migration and winter.