The Common Pochard: A Red-Eyed Visitor on Winter Lakes

Fun Facts

Hello, everyone! Have you ever heard of the Common Pochard? It’s a type of duck you can spot on lakes and rivers during the winter, and it’s actually a fascinating little bird!

The Common Pochard measures about 43 to 48 cm in length. The males have a reddish-brown head, a black chest, and a finely patterned gray body, giving them a classic and elegant appearance. The females, on the other hand, have a soft brown color overall, with a distinctive white line around their eyes. Both are absolutely adorable, so if you spot one, take a moment to observe them closely! In winter, they can be found on lakes and ponds all across Japan.

(Source of Materials:photoAC
(Source of Materials:photoAC

These ducks are excellent divers, skillfully searching underwater for food. They have an omnivorous diet, munching on aquatic plants, seeds, small fish, and insects. Watching them dive can make you want to cheer them on!

The sight of a Common Pochard gliding across a winter lake with its striking red eyes is simply enchanting. If you have the chance, grab a pair of binoculars and go see them for yourself. It might just make your chilly winter outing a bit more exciting!Until next time!