A distinctive medium-sized waterfowl species native to Europe and Asia, characterized by its striking black and white plumage with hints of chestnut coloration.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Coastal regions, estuaries, salt marshes, and wetlands across temperate and subarctic zones of Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa. Prefer shallow marine and terrestrial water ecosystems with abundant invertebrate populations.
Ecological Role
Key species in coastal ecosystem maintenance, controlling invertebrate populations and serving as prey and predator in complex marine and wetland food webs.
Morphology
SKIN COATDense waterproof plumage, primarily white with black chest, green iridescent head, chestnut-colored band across chest.
LIMBS WINGSStrong webbed feet for swimming, powerful wings for long-distance migration. Wing coloration predominantly white with black primaries.
HEAD SENSORYLarge head with prominent bill, keen visual and auditory perception. Distinctive red bill with knob at base.
BODY STRUCTURERobust body, length 58-67 cm, wingspan 110-130 cm, weight 0.8-1.5 kg. Streamlined body adapted for aquatic locomotion.
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Michael Gäbler
