pink headed duck

The pink-headed duck (Rhodonessa caryophyllacea) is one of the most enigmatic and rarest waterfowl in the world. Once found across the Gangetic plains of India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, this striking bird has not been definitively recorded in the wild since the 1950s. While many fear it is extinct, it remains classified as Critically Endangered due to potential remaining populations in inaccessible regions.

This medium-sized duck is roughly 60 cm in length and is most notable for its stunning deep pink head and neck. This vibrant color contrasts sharply with its dark chocolate-brown body. It possesses a long, slender neck and a pinkish bill. In flight, a prominent wing patch is visible, and its overall silhouette is similar to the Indian spot-billed duck.

The pink-headed duck is known to be a shy and secretive species. It historically inhabited secluded pools and marshes nestled within elephant-grass jungles and riverine swamps. These birds were often found in the Gangetic plains and the remote wetlands of northern Myanmar, preferring areas with dense vegetation for cover.

Based on historical observations, pink-headed ducks are believed to have consumed a diet consisting of water plants and molluscs. They primarily fed by dabbling on the water surface or up-ending, much like members of the Netta genus, though they were occasionally capable of diving.

Details regarding their breeding habits are limited; however, they were known to construct nests in tall grass near water. One of the most peculiar aspects of their biology is their eggs, which are described as being nearly spherical and off-white, a shape that is highly unusual for ducks.

The species was characterized by its secretive nature, often hiding among dense reeds. While they were primarily aquatic, they were occasionally observed perched in trees. They were known to undertake local seasonal movements, which led to historical records appearing across various regions of the Indian subcontinent.

The pink-headed duck is currently listed as Critically Endangered. Despite numerous intensive searches in the swamps of Myanmar and India, no conclusive proof of its existence has been found for decades. The loss of its specialized wetland habitat is considered the primary cause of its decline.

1. The pink-headed duck is the only member of the genus Rhodonessa.
2. Its eggs are uniquely spherical, unlike the oval shape of most other duck eggs.
3. The last confirmed sighting in the wild occurred in 1935, though unconfirmed reports persist.
4. It was once a prized bird for private aviaries in Europe during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
5. Some scientists believe it is closely related to the red-crested pochard.

• Focus your efforts on the inaccessible swamp regions of northern Myanmar, such as the Kachin State.
• Look for secluded, still-water pools hidden within dense elephant grass.
• Be prepared for difficult terrain, as their suspected remaining habitats are extremely remote.
• Always carry high-resolution photographic equipment to document any potential sightings for scientific verification.

The pink-headed duck remains a symbol of the "lost" species of the world. Whether it continues to survive in the hidden corners of Asia or has truly vanished, it highlights the urgent need for wetland preservation. The search for this pink-headed ghost continues to inspire conservationists and birdwatchers alike.