The Common Pochard has a wide distribution, breeding across much of Europe and Asia. Its breeding range extends from the British Isles and France eastward across central and eastern Europe, through Russia and into central Asia, reaching as far as Lake Baikal. It migrates south for the winter, with significant populations wintering in western and southern Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, and parts of East Asia. They have a moderate altitudinal range, typically found in lowlands but can occur at higher elevations during migration.

The average lifespan in the wild is not well-documented, but it is estimated to be around 2-5 years. In captivity, they can live longer, potentially up to 10 years or more, but comprehensive data is lacking.

Freshwater lakes, Reservoirs, Slow-flowing rivers, Marshes, Coastal lagoons (during winter)

Temperate, Boreal, Steppe

Common Pochards are well-adapted to aquatic environments. They have large, webbed feet positioned far back on their bodies, which aids in powerful diving. Their dense plumage provides insulation in cold water. A flattened bill helps them filter food from the water and mud.

No formally recognized subspecies are currently identified for the Common Pochard. While some regional variations in size and plumage may exist, these are not considered distinct enough to warrant subspecies classification.

Breeding males have a bright chestnut head and neck, a black breast, a pale grey body, and a black tail. Females are much duller, with a mottled brown body and a less distinct head pattern. In non-breeding plumage (eclipse), males resemble females but retain a darker head and a redder eye.

Males undergo a complete molt after breeding, entering the eclipse plumage. They regain their breeding plumage in the late autumn or early winter.

Significant sexual dimorphism exists, with males displaying much brighter and more contrasting plumage, especially during the breeding season.

Rounded head shape, Red eye (more prominent in males), Greyish-blue bill with a black tip

Aquatic plants (seeds, roots, leaves), Mollusks, Insects (larvae and adults), Crustaceans, Small fish (occasionally)

Common Pochards are diving ducks. They typically forage by diving underwater, propelling themselves with their feet. They can stay submerged for a considerable time, often feeding at depths of 1-3 meters. They may also dabble at the surface or upend in shallow water.

Their bill is adapted for filtering food from water and mud. They have lamellae (comb-like structures) along the edges of their bill that help them strain out small food items.

Their diet varies depending on the availability of food. During the breeding season, they may consume more animal matter (insects, crustaceans) to meet the increased protein requirements for egg production. In winter, they may rely more heavily on plant matter.

Common Pochards are gregarious, especially outside the breeding season. They often form large flocks during migration and winter. During the breeding season, they are more dispersed, forming pairs or small groups.

Soft whistles (males), Growling calls (females), Visual displays (head movements, wing flapping)

Common Pochards are migratory, with populations breeding in northern latitudes moving south for the winter. They undertake long-distance migrations, often following traditional routes. Migration is triggered by decreasing day length and falling temperatures.

During the breeding season, males may defend a small territory around the nest site. However, they are not strongly territorial compared to some other duck species. In winter, they form large, mixed-species flocks with other diving ducks.

Habitat loss and degradation (wetland drainage, pollution), Climate change (altering breeding and wintering habitats), Hunting pressure (in some regions), Disturbance from human activities (recreation, boating), Lead poisoning (from ingested lead shot), Avian influenza

International agreements (e.g., AEWA - African-Eurasian Waterbird Agreement), Habitat restoration and protection projects, Hunting regulations (in some countries)

Protected under national legislation in many countries within its range, such as the Birds Directive in the European Union.

Decreasing

The global population is estimated to be between 2,300,000 and 2,800,000 individuals.

They can dive to depths of several meters to reach food and can stay underwater for a surprisingly long time.

This makes them temporarily flightless and vulnerable to predators.

This may provide benefits such as increased vigilance against predators.

Habitat loss and degradation, due to wetland drainage and pollution, are major threats. Climate change is also increasingly impacting their habitats.

They are hunted as game birds in some regions. The taste is subjective and depends on preparation, but like other diving ducks, they can have a slightly stronger flavor compared to dabbling ducks.

Breeding males have a distinctive chestnut head, black breast, and grey body. Females are much duller brown overall. In non-breeding plumage, males resemble females but have a darker head and redder eye.

They can be found on freshwater lakes, reservoirs, and slow-flowing rivers, especially during migration and winter. Coastal lagoons are also important wintering habitats.