Garganey
Scientific name: Spatula querquedula
IUCN listed as: Least Concern
Learn before you visit!
Here are some facts about the species – Discover what they eat, find out about their natural habitat, see what they like to do, and more… Set the reading style to suit you too, everyday speak or something aimed towards children.
Child-friendly
Everyday
Diet
Garganeys primarily feed on aquatic invertebrates and plant matter. Their diet includes insects, molluscs, crustaceans, and various aquatic plants. They forage by dabbling in shallow waters, often tipping forward to reach food underwater. This varied diet helps them maintain good health and supports their migratory lifestyle. During migration, they might also consume grains and seeds from agricultural fields.
Garganeys eat insects, small water animals, and plants. They find food by dipping their heads in shallow water. This helps them stay healthy and strong. They also eat seeds from fields during their travels.
Breeding
Garganeys breed in temperate regions, with the breeding season starting in late spring. The female builds a nest on the ground, usually concealed by dense vegetation near water. She lays 8-11 eggs, which she incubates for about 21-23 days. The ducklings are precocial, meaning they are relatively mature and mobile shortly after hatching. They follow their mother to water, where they learn to forage for food.
Garganeys have babies in late spring. The mother makes a nest on the ground near water and lays 8-11 eggs. The baby ducks hatch after about three weeks and follow their mother to the water. They quickly learn to find their own food.
Habitat
Garganeys inhabit a variety of wetland environments, including marshes, shallow lakes, and flooded fields. They are highly migratory, breeding in Europe and Asia and wintering in Africa and southern Asia. These habitats provide the necessary resources for feeding, breeding, and resting during migration. Habitat loss due to drainage and conversion of wetlands poses a significant threat to their populations. Conservation efforts focus on preserving and restoring wetland habitats to support their lifecycle.
Garganeys live in wetlands like marshes and lakes. They travel long distances from Europe and Asia to Africa and southern Asia. They need these wetlands to find food and rest. Protecting these places is very important for their survival.
At the zoo
In zoos, Garganeys are kept in aviaries that simulate their natural wetland habitats. These environments include shallow ponds and plenty of vegetation, allowing the birds to exhibit natural foraging and nesting behaviours. Zoos play a crucial role in educating the public about wetland conservation and the importance of protecting migratory bird species. The diet provided in captivity includes a mix of grains, aquatic plants, and live invertebrates. This setup helps maintain their health and encourages natural behaviours.
In zoos, Garganeys live in places that look like their natural homes with ponds and plants. Zoos help people learn about these birds and why it’s important to protect their homes. They get a mix of grains and live insects to eat. This keeps them healthy and happy.
Behaviour
Garganeys are migratory birds, known for their long-distance flights between breeding and wintering grounds. They are generally social, often seen in small flocks during migration. Their behaviour includes dabbling in water for food and nesting in dense vegetation. During the breeding season, males are known for their distinctive courtship displays, which include a series of calls and physical movements. Understanding their behaviour is essential for conservation and ensuring their habitats are protected.
Garganeys fly long distances when they migrate. They like to be in small groups and find food in shallow water. In spring, males show off to attract mates. Knowing how they behave helps protect their homes.
Fun facts
- Long Migration: Garganeys travel thousands of kilometres during migration.
- Dabbling Ducks: They forage for food by tipping forward in shallow water.
- Fast Flyers: They can fly at speeds of up to 60 km/h.
- Unique Calls: Males have distinctive courtship calls.
- Colour Change: Males change colour during breeding season, becoming more vibrant.
- Big Travellers: Garganeys fly very far when they migrate.
- Food Dippers: They dip their heads in water to find food.
- Speedy Flyers: They can fly really fast, up to 60 km/h.
- Special Sounds: Males make special sounds to attract mates.
- Bright Colours: Male Garganeys get brighter feathers in spring.
More animals to discover at our zoo
Quick Links
Tickets & Prices
You can buy tickets for Exmoor Zoo securely online, as well as finding out more price options, discover offers, and more…
What’s on…
Exmoor Zoo hosts incredible Events all through the year. You can find out about what we’ve got in store here…
Routes & info
Like any great discovery, Exmoor Zoo can feel a little off the beaten path – but don’t worry – you can plan your journey with our recommended routes and other useful travel info.
