Rare Marbled Duck

  • 12 Dec 2024

On 8th December, 2024, a marbled duck, a vulnerable winter migrant, was spotted by bird enthusiasts at Sultanpur National Park in Gurugram district of Haryana.The bird was last seen in the park in 1990.

Key Points

  • Conservation Status: Classified as "vulnerable" by IUCN due to habitat loss and hunting.
  • Habitat: Native to the Mediterranean and Iran, it breeds in shallow, fresh waters
  • Previous Sightings: Limited records in Haryana, with recent sightings in Bhindawas wetland (2022) and regions like Gujarat and Rajasthan.
  • Physical Traits: Medium-sized duck with grey-white plumage, large head, and light eye patches; sustains on fish and aquatic plants.