Here is a comprehensive list of duck species that can be observed during the winter months in the Alentejo region of Portugal. These include both common and rare species:
Dabbling Ducks (Surface Feeders)
- Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos)
Common and widespread, found in most wetlands. - Gadwall (Mareca strepera)
Prefers shallow lakes and wetlands. - Northern Pintail (Anas acuta)
Elegant with long tail feathers in males. - Eurasian Wigeon (Mareca penelope)
Distinctive with a chestnut head and yellow crown in males. - Northern Shoveler (Spatula clypeata)
Recognizable by its large spatula-shaped bill. - Common Teal (Anas crecca)
Small and energetic, with a green eye stripe in males. - Garganey (Spatula querquedula)
A rare winter visitor with a distinctive white eyebrow in males.
Diving Ducks
- Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)
Black-and-white males with a tuft on the head. - Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)
Red-headed males with grey bodies. - Ferruginous Duck (Aythya nyroca) (Witoogeend)
Rare and declining, with a dark brown body and white eye. - Red-crested Pochard (Netta rufina)
Striking with an orange head and red bill in males.
Stiff-tailed Ducks
- Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) (Rosse stekelstaart)
An introduced species, with males having a bright blue bill.
Shelducks
- Common Shelduck (Tadorna tadorna)
A large, colorful duck found in estuarine areas.
Rare or Accidental Winter Visitors
- Marbled Duck (Marmaronetta angustirostris)
Vulnerable species occasionally spotted in suitable habitats. - Baikal Teal (Sibirionetta formosa)
Very rare vagrant from Asia. - Greater Scaup (Aythya marila)
Rare visitor, preferring larger water bodies. - Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis)
Uncommon wintering bird in coastal waters.
Key Habitats in Alentejo
- Alqueva Reservoir: Largest artificial lake in Europe, attracting numerous duck species.
- Guadiana River Basin: Vital for species preferring flowing water.
- Estuaries and Lagoons: Areas like Lagoa dos Patos provide food and shelter.
These species contribute to the incredible bird diversity in the Alentejo, making it a hotspot for birdwatching, particularly in the winter months. Conservation efforts remain crucial to protecting these ducks and their habitats.
