Ruddy Shelduck

🔍 Overview

A striking, exotic-looking waterfowl. Rare in Sussex; birds may be either wild wanderers from the continent or escapes from collections. Breeds in SE Europe and across central and east Asia with naturalised populations in central Europe. Rare vagrant from wild or naturalised populations or escape from captivity.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Size: Slightly smaller than Shelduck (58–70 cm)

Plumage: Rich orange-brown, pale head, black flight feathers

Other: Loud honking call

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Occasional records from Chichester GP, Pagham Harbour, and Arlington Reservoir. Most often seen in late summer.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Loud honking. Gathers in open wetlands; wary of humans if wild.