Explore West Dunbartonshire

SHELDUCK : Tadorna tadorna

Shelduck are widely distributed around the UK and you may occassionally find some in West Dunbartonshire along the coast or inland waters. It is a large bird with a dark green head, bright red bill, orangey-brown band around the breast, and black patches on the back and wings.

The Wildlife Trust tells us that : The shelduck nests underground in old rabbit burrows, in tree holes or in haystacks. During the 19th century, it was persecuted for this habit in certain areas as it competed with rabbits which were food for many people.

(Picture taken at Linlithgow Loch).

NHBS : https://www.nhbs.com/blog/the-nhbs-guide-to-uk-duck-identification#:~:text=The%20NHBS%20Guide%20to%20UK%20Duck%20Identification%201,fuligula%29%208%20Gadwall%20%28%20Anas%20strepera%29%20More%20items

WILDLIFE TRUSTS : https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/birds/waterfowl/shelduck