Maris Wigeon

The Maris Wigeon (Anas penelope), commonly known as the Eurasian Wigeon, is a species of dabbling duck found in the Palearctic region. It is a migratory bird, breeding in the northernmost parts of Europe and Asia and wintering further south.

Taxonomy

The Maris Wigeon belongs to the genus Anas within the family Anatidae. It was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758. The species name "penelope" is derived from Greek mythology, referring to the wife of Odysseus.

Description

The Maris Wigeon is a medium-sized duck, with a length of 42–50 cm and a wingspan of 71–80 cm. The male is easily recognizable by its distinctive chestnut head and creamy forehead. The body is predominantly grey with a pinkish breast and white belly. The female is more subdued in coloration, with mottled brown plumage that provides excellent camouflage.

Plumage

The male's breeding plumage is striking, with a bright chestnut head and a creamy white crown. The body is grey with a pinkish hue on the breast. The female is mottled brown, which helps in nesting camouflage.

Voice

The male Maris Wigeon is known for its distinctive whistling call, which is often heard during the breeding season. The female's call is a low growl.

Distribution and Habitat

The Maris Wigeon breeds across the northern parts of Europe and Asia, from Iceland and the British Isles to eastern Siberia. During the winter, it migrates to southern Europe, North Africa, the Indian subcontinent, and Southeast Asia.

Breeding Habitat

The breeding habitat of the Maris Wigeon includes freshwater lakes, marshes, and rivers in the tundra and boreal forest zones. They prefer areas with abundant aquatic vegetation.

Wintering Habitat

In winter, the Maris Wigeon can be found in coastal estuaries, lagoons, and inland wetlands. They often gather in large flocks in these areas.

Behavior

The Maris Wigeon is a social species, often seen in large flocks outside the breeding season. It is a dabbling duck, feeding mainly on aquatic plants, seeds, and small invertebrates.

Feeding

The Maris Wigeon feeds by dabbling at the surface of the water or grazing on land. Its diet consists mainly of aquatic plants, but it will also eat seeds and small invertebrates.

Breeding

Breeding occurs in the northern summer. The female builds a nest on the ground, often concealed in vegetation. She lays 6–8 eggs, which she incubates for about 25 days.

Conservation Status

The Maris Wigeon is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, it faces threats from habitat loss and hunting in some parts of its range.

See Also

• Dabbling duck
• Anatidae
• Bird migration

External Links

• IUCN Red List entry for Anas penelope
• BirdLife International species factsheet