122 ANATIDAG 
The Ferruginous Duck has occasionally been obtained 
in the London markets, but when so procured, is more 
probably Continental than British in origin. 
This bird, when viewed at a distance, might be mistaken 
for a female Pochard, but a closer inspection will show 
that the latter is larger and has a lighter-coloured back. 
The white eye of the Ferruginous Duck is a distinguish- 
ing feature. This species is not, by any means, partial to 
the sea-coast; it resorts to ponds, where weeds are plen- 
tiful and where it can lurk about, concealed from view. 
Food.—Food is taken chiefly during the day, and con- 
sists of various aquatic vegetables, insects, shell-fish, and 
frogs. 
This Duck can dive to a great depth and can travel at a 
rapid rate under water. 
Flight.—Like that of most Diving Ducks, its flight is 
heavy and not buoyant. 
Voice.—The note is harsh, resembling the syllables 
curr-curr, repeated many times. 
Nest.—The nest is built among reeds, in close vicinity 
to water. 
The eggs, seven to fourteen in number, are dull white, 
shading to cream-colour. 
The Ferruginous Duck thrives well in captivity and 
mates with other species. 
Geographical distribution.—The breeding-range of this 
species extends over Central and Southern Europe, Tem- 
perate Asia (being abundant in Kashmir), and North Africa. 
In winter the Ferruginous Duck migrates to India, 
Egypt and Abyssinia. 
DESCRIPTIVE CHARACTERS. 
PLUMAGE. Adult male nuptial. — Head, neck, upper 
breast and flanks, rich mahogany-brown ; small white patch 
on chin; breast and abdomen, white; back, scapulars, and 
wings, chiefly dull brown with a ereenish tinge; speculum, 
white, bordered with black ; ; primaries, brownish-black ; 
tail, black, under tail-coverts, white. 
Adult male, post-nuptial or eclipse.—It would appear that 
no other plumage is assumed by the male more closely 
resembling that of the female. 
Adult female nuptial.—The head and neck are darker and 
much duller in colour than in the male, while the breast 
and abdomen are greyish rather than pure white. 
