First quotes of breeding of the Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca in Menorca.

Crías de porrón pardo Aythya nyroca © Menorca Walking Birds

In the spring / summer of 2012, it was confirmed for the first time in Menorca the breeding of the ferruginous duck Aythya nyroca. This occurred in a small wetland area north of the island called North Son Saura. Throughout the spring and early summer ¾ territorial couples were identified, but it was not until July 17 when the first offspring were observed. Based on the various comments later, it is believed that they were three couples that were reproducing during 2012 in this beautiful place in Menorca. The presence of pochard on the island in five years has gone from being scarce, irregular and restricted to having overwintering or migrants, but little to be regular throughout the year. The ferruginous duck is a bird very little filling and located in the western Mediterranean, Spanish population being less than 10 partners and a clear negative trend.