Australian Shell Duck Stock Image

The Australian Shelduck is a large, brightly coloured duck with a small head and bill. The male head and neck are black, tinged green, with a white neck ring and occasionally a white ring around the base of the bill. The upper parts are mainly black, while the underparts are dark brown with a cinnamon breast. White upperwing coverts form a white shoulder patch. The wings are black and deep chestnut with a large green speculum window in wing. The female has a white eye-ring and a chestnut breast. Australian Shelducks are usually unmistakable, with the upright stance and dark head contrasting with the white neck ring.