Shelduck

When: All year round

Scientific name: Tadorna tadorna

Gaelic name: cràdh-ghèadh

Size: Around 60cm in length, wingspan 1.2 metres

Where: Feeding on invertebrates in the mudflats on the banks of the Forth

Shelduck truly set themselves apart from other estuarine birds by having such dazzling and unmistakable plumage. Their charismatic behaviour also makes them easily identifiable, and rather endearing. The Firth of Forth is of particular importance to shelduck, as it is one of the largest moult sites in the UK for this species.

Larger than a mallard but smaller than a goose, shelduck are one of the most common species found wading along the banks of the Firth of Forth. Their bright red bill contrasts perfectly with the rich emerald feathers on their neck and head. A chestnut-tan brown band around the breast and back add another bold feature that make shelduck easy to identify against other wildfowl and waders.

At first glance, shelduck may look slightly odd, or even deranged, with their bills buried firmly in the mud, shuffling along at what looks like a most uncomfortable angle. This is in fact how shelduck feed, filtering through the mud with their bills to pick up invertebrates, shellfish and other tasty morsels buried beneath the surface. You can see where shelduck have travelled through the mud, as they often leave a uniquely patterned trail of footprints embellished with bill marks behind them!

Thankfully, shelduck are successful breeders in the UK, possibly due to their communal parenting skills. Adult shelduck will happily look after the young of another breeding pair, should the parents disappear to moult. Nursery schools are formed, with young at varying stages huddled together and presided over by a few adults for safety. This humbling spirit of protection and loyalty is reflected in the symbolism of other shelduck species around the world; in some Asian countries, ruddy shelduck are said to represent marital fidelity! Buddhists believe the ruddy shelduck to be sacred, and it is thought by some that the vibrant saffron colour of a Buddhist's robe is derived from the dazzling plumage of the shelduck.

To learn more about shelduck and their relatives, visit https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/shelduck

Image: Ben Hall, RSPB Images