ExploreBirds

Raja Shelduck

Tadorna radjah

The Raja Shelduck is a colorful bird known for its beautiful feathers. It loves to swim in lakes and rivers, where it can be seen diving for food and playing in the water.

Habitat: Wetlands

Appearance

The Raja Shelduck has a striking all-white body, often with a rich chestnut breast band, contrasting with dark greenish-black flight feathers. Its legs are pink, and it sports a pale pinkish-grey bill, making it visually distinct among waterfowl.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderAnseriformesFamilyAnatidaeGenusRadjah
Raja Shelduck
feathered trait badgewebbed_feet trait badgesocial trait badgeomnivorous trait badge
Raja Shelduck

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Raja Shelducks form strong pair bonds, often staying together for life.

Their unique name 'Raja' means 'king' or 'prince' in Sanskrit!

They are sometimes called 'Burdekin Ducks' in Australia.

They often nest high up in tree hollows, sometimes far from water!

Special abilities

Ability

Cavity Nester

Raja Shelduck can nest in tree hollows or burrows, providing a safe, hidden spot for their eggs.

Ability

Aquatic Forager

The Raja Shelduck can dive underwater and dabble to find tasty plants and invertebrates in wetlands.

Ability

Strong Flier

Raja Shelducks have powerful wings that help them fly swiftly over their tropical wetland homes.

Measurements & details

Length
48-61 cm
Wingspan
90-110 cm
Weight
0.8-1.5 kg
Lifespan
10-15 years
Top Speed
60 km/h
Clutch Size
6-12
Incubation
28-30 days

Diet & Feeding

These ducks munch on a mix of aquatic plants and tiny water creatures.

Primary Foods

  • Aquatic grasses
  • Sedges
  • Algae
  • Snails
  • Insect larvae

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

eaten by

Saltwater Crocodile

Crocodylus porosus

A large predator of adults and ducklings.

eaten by

White-bellied Sea-Eagle

Haliaeetus leucogaster

A common bird of prey in its habitat.

depends on

River Red Gum

Eucalyptus camaldulensis

Provides hollows for nesting.

eats

Wild Rice

Oryza rufipogon

Consumes seeds and shoots of this plant.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always watch birds from a distance and do not try to touch them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Raja Shelduck?

48-61 cm

What is Raja Shelduck's wingspan?

90-110 cm

How much does Raja Shelduck weigh?

0.8-1.5 kg

How long does Raja Shelduck live?

10-15 years

How fast can Raja Shelduck move?

60 km/h

What does Raja Shelduck eat?

These ducks munch on a mix of aquatic plants and tiny water creatures.

Where is Raja Shelduck usually found?

Wetlands

How does Raja Shelduck hunt?

Foraging

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Where to spot

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