Madagascar Pochard
Aythya innotata
Critically EndangeredAves · Anseriformes · Anatidae
About
The Madagascar pochard or Madagascan pochard is an extremely rare diving duck of the genus Aythya. Thought to be extinct in the late 1990s, specimens of the species were rediscovered at Lake Matsaborimena near Bemanevika in Madagascar in 2006. By 2017, a captive breeding program had produced a population of around 90 individuals. The birds were reintroduced to the wild in December 2018.
Fun Fact
The Madagascar pochard feeds mainly on aquatic insects, unlike other diving ducks in the same genus, The population is small, fluctuating around 25 individuals, and mainly utilises two small volcanic lakes in the far north of Madagascar.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Lives in inland wetlands in Madagascar, where it is endemic.
Diet
Feed on the surface until they are old enough to dive, at around 14 days, and make shorter dives once they do dive (around 10 seconds).
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Destruction
- Pollution
- Invasive Species
- Over-Collection
- Climate Change