Identification
The breeding male shows a broad white eyebrow sweeping back across a dark head. Females have a subtler face pattern and can resemble small teal.
When to look
A long-distance migrant breeding across Eurasia and wintering mainly in Africa and southern Asia. Romanian passage and breeding-season observations depend on wetland conditions.
Where to look
Shallow freshwater wetlands with reedy margins, flooded vegetation and nearby open feeding water are important.
Behaviour and ecology
Food and nutrition
Dabbling and surface feeding provide aquatic invertebrates and plant food. Migrants can gather with other ducks on more open water.
Breeding and life cycle
The nest is concealed on the ground in vegetation near water. Drying or disturbed wetland margins reduce suitable nesting cover.
A closer look
Its migration links European freshwater marshes with tropical flood systems; seasonal water availability matters at both ends of the journey.
Global conservation assessment
LC · Least Concern
Global category recorded from the linked assessment; it does not describe local abundance. Least Concern does not mean absence of threats.
View the source assessment ↗Observation and photography
Check quiet vegetated corners before concentrating on the centre of a lake. Compare females patiently instead of forcing the birds into flight.
Sources and further reading
Keep a distance that allows birds to feed and rest normally. Do not enter colonies, approach nests, flush roosts or use playback for photographs. Never publish precise nest locations of sensitive species. Follow reserve rules and your guide's advice.