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page.Gadwall
Anas strepera
The gadwall is common in eastern Europe and the eastern part of central Europe; it is also found in northwestern Europe, Great Britain and the south of Sweden, and in rare instances southern Spain and France. Western European populations are resident, others are migrant, wintering mostly in southwestern Europe as well as in Africa as far south as Ethiopia. Gadwall leave their breeding grounds in September to November, returning in late March or April. The breeding grounds are mostly inland bodies of stagnant water bordered with thick vegetation. The birds are already paired when they arrive, but it is interesting to note that during the courtship display one female is surrounded by several males. The nest is placed on the ground, usually on a small islet, or bank near water. It is generally well concealed in grass and lined with bits of dry vegetation. In May or June there is a clutch of seven to 12 eggs, which the female incubates alone for 26 to 27 days. As soon as the newly hatched ducklings have dried, she leads them to the water. The young fledge at seven weeks, after which they roam the countryside until the time comes to leave for their winter quarters. The gadwall's diet consists of plant parts and seeds; only occasionally does the bird feed on molluscs and water insects. The young, however, consume animal food in plenty.
Click on any of the other bird links, these are Geese Barnacle Goose : Brent Goose : Canada Goose : Greylag Goose
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