Mareca penelope (Linnaeus, 1758) · kačica hvizdárka · Eurasian Wigeon

Distribution

It breeds in northern and temperate Eurasia and winters farther south in Europe, Africa and Asia. In Slovakia it is a regular and locally numerous passage migrant, especially in spring and autumn. Some birds also winter, usually on larger ice-free waters. It is not a regular Slovak breeder.

Habitat

In the north it uses lakes and open wetlands with plant food. In Slovakia, look on fishponds, reservoirs and river arms, as well as adjoining flooded meadows. It often grazes short grass beside water, so a flock need not remain on the surface all the time.

Breeding

The nest is hidden on the ground in dense vegetation near water. The female incubates and leads the ducklings, which feed themselves. Pairs may form on the wintering grounds, so spring pairs on Slovak waters do not by themselves imply local nesting.

Food

Aquatic plants, grasses and other green material dominate the diet, supplemented by seeds and small invertebrates. It feeds at the surface, by upending and by grazing along the bank.

Interesting fact

The male's clear whistle can help locate the species in a mixed duck flock. Its cream forehead and reddish head then confirm where the sound is coming from.

Sources: Slovak Wikipedia · English Wikipedia · BTO BirdFacts