European Shelduck |
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 The
European Shelduck, more commonly refered to as the Common Shelduck, is a
large, somewhat goose-like duck with very dark green head, some black
markings and chestnut breast band from the back of the neck to the
beginning of the wings. Both sides of the body and back are white. The
bill is red and drake has a little knob on the bill before forehead. The
legs are pink. It moves the wings considerably slower while flying than
other species of ducks.
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Major habitats are in the natural zones of steppes and semi deserts. In Europe
it breeds in coastal regions, the Mediterranean, France, Poland, the British
Isles, the Scandinavian countries and south-west Finland. In Estonia it is
spread on the seashore, mostly on the maritime islands in western Estonia. The
seashore with shallow coastal water is its habitat.
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Breeding The Common Shelduck builds its nest into caves, deserted burrows of foxes and
badgers, wide clefts in cliffs and other similar places. Its nests have been
found in stone fences, under the floors and ceilings of dwelling houses. The
pair remains together during the whole breeding period. They line the nest with
plentiful downy feathers and the female bird lays the first eggs at the end of
May. The full clutch (8 - 12 white eggs) is laid at the beginning of June. Both
parents take care of hatching and feeding the young. The young hatch at the
beginning of July and are able to fly at the end of August. Apart from hatching
time, the Common Shelduck loves company and up to 50 birds flock together.
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General Comments This duck flies much like a goose and it walks easily on land.
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