Shelducks

1 - Common shelducks are water birds belonging to the duck family. They are also known as shelducks. The name “Brandgänse” comes from their striking plumage, which shimmers in bright shades of red, orange and yellow. These colors are reminiscent of burning fire, hence the name “Brandgänse.” They are found in various parts of the world and live mainly in bodies of water such as lakes, rivers and coastal areas.

2 - Shelducks feed mainly on plants and small aquatic insects. Some shelducks spend the whole year on the North Sea coast and breed here, while many others come here only to spend the winter. Some have also settled inland.

3 - Common shelducks grow to about 60 to 70 cm long. Their wingspan is approximately 120 cm. They weigh between 1 and 1.5 kg.

4 - During their moult, shelducks lose all their flight feathers, so they cannot fly for a while. They therefore have to find safe areas before moulting, where there is also enough food. As a result, particularly large numbers of shelducks arrive in the Wadden Sea every August.

Picture: Adrian Pingstone (public domain)