<p>
The Common Shelduck is a common bird that is widespread throughout
Europe and parts of Asia and Africa.
They are predominately white with a dark green head and neck and a chestnut
breast-band.
The wings coverts are white, the primaries are black,
and the secondaries are green and chestnut colored.
They have a black belly and
their bills are red with pinkish red feet and legs.
During the breeding season, the male's bill has a red knob at the base.
The sexes are similar but the female is smaller and has white facial markings.
</p><p>
Common Shelducks have a large range and the population seems to be increasing.
Thus, it is of 'Least Concern' for extinction.
</p>
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<p>
:Diet:
Common Shelducks eat salt-water molluscs
and other invertebrates, small fish, and plant material such as algae, seeds and grain.
</p>
<p>
:Courtship:
Courtship behavior includes ritualized preening called Preening-behind-the-wing by both
sexes.
</p>
<p> 
:Nesting:
The Common Shelduck builds their nests in a variety of places such as
caves, tree hollows, nest boxes, deserted burrows, etc.
The nest is lined with downy feathers and the female lays 8-12 eggs.
Both parents take care of the chicks.
</p>
<p>
:Habitat and Range:
Common Shelducks prefer saline habitats such as mudflats and estuaries in coastal areas and saline or
brackish lakes in steppe or semi-desert areas.
They will also occupy freshwater rivers or marshes.
They are found throughout Europe, Asian and some winter in Northern Africa and southern parts of
Asia.
</p>
<p>
:Vocalization:
The male produces melodious and high-pitched whistling sounds.
</p>
<p>
:Plumage/Molt
Common Shelducks molt annually after the breeding season.
During this time (25-31 days) they are flightless and will form large flocks of up
to 100,000 individuals.
</p>
<p>
:Migration:
Most Common Shelduck migrate to southern Asia, Europe and North Africa during winter.
This is less true for the European populations who tend to be resident all year.
</p>
<p>
:Tongue/feet:
Legs and feet are a pinkish red.
</p>
<p>
:Bibliography:
w4;June 2012
w39;June 2012
b20
</p>