North American Ruddy Ducks (Oxyura jamaicensis jamaicensis). Males.
Ruddy Duck . Survival and conservation concerns exist for a close relative in Europe, Spain in particular, by Ruddy Ducks hybridization with the White-headed Duck (Oxyura leucocephala). Escaped or released captive bred North American Ruddy Ducks from England have flown across to mainland Europe and are able to cross breed with the rare White-headed Duck. An eradication programme by controlled shooting was introduced in 2003 in UK to prevent this happening. North American Ruddy Ducks or Stifftails, were first recorded as breeding in the wild in England in 1952, on reservoirs near Bristol. By year 2000 population numbered 6,000. As of 2003 controlled shooting had reduced this number down to 400-500 birds left in UK.
Size: 3744px × 5616px
Photo credit: © Joe Blossom / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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