Rosy-billed pochard
Scientific name: Netta peposaca
- How weight is recorded: Whole weight
Field notes
Appearance
Large diving duck with males displaying deep burgundy-chestnut plumage and a prominent glossy black head; females are duller brown overall. Both sexes show a distinctive red bill and pale eye.
Size and weight
Males 56–58 cm, 900–1100 g; females 52–55 cm, 750–900 g.
Habitat
Freshwater lakes, marshes, and coastal lagoons with open water and emergent vegetation. Prefers shallow waters in lowland and temperate regions.
Distribution
South American endemic, occurring from central Brazil south through Paraguay, Argentina, and Uruguay; concentrates on shallow freshwater systems.
Diet
Aquatic vegetation, seeds, and invertebrates obtained by diving; seasonal preference shifts toward plant matter in winter.
Behaviour
Primarily nocturnal and crepuscular feeder; highly gregarious outside breeding season, forming large rafts on open water. Strong fliers with rapid wingbeats.
Hunting tips
Glass open-water areas at dawn and dusk for feeding flocks; birds favour sheltered bays and lake margins. Approach from downwind using natural shoreline cover; these ducks flush readily, so patience and stillness are critical. Listen for diagnostic contact calls to locate feeding concentrations in low-light conditions.
Whole weight
This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.
Where it is hunted
Listed as huntable in 4 countries in Huntify.
Names in other languages
Current language: en
These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.