Pink-headed ducks, an incredibly rare species of waterfowl, once thrived in the lower regions north of the Ganges and west of the Brahmaputra River in India. These magnificent ducks inhabited specific areas within this region, where they found suitable habitat and conditions for their survival.
The pink-headed ducks were primarily found in wetlands and marshes, which provided them with ample food sources and nesting sites. These wetlands were often surrounded by dense vegetation, offering the ducks protection and seclusion. The ducks preferred areas with abundant aquatic plants, as they formed a significant part of their diet.
One specific area where pink-headed ducks were known to reside was the Kaziranga National Park in the state of Assam. This vast wildlife sanctuary, renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, provided an ideal habitat for these ducks. The park encompassed both wetlands and grasslands, creating a favorable environment for a variety of waterfowl species, including the pink-headed ducks.
Another region where sightings of pink-headed ducks were reported was the Keoladeo National Park, formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, located in the state of Rajasthan. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasted a mosaic of wetlands, shallow lakes, and woodlands, attracting numerous migratory birds, including the elusive pink-headed ducks.
However, it is important to note that the pink-headed duck population has drastically declined over the years, and the species is now considered critically endangered. The last confirmed sighting of this species in the wild was in 1949, and since then, extensive efforts have been made to search for any remaining individuals. Despite these efforts, no conclusive evidence of their continued existence has been found.
The decline of the pink-headed duck population can be attributed to various factors, including habitat loss, hunting, and the degradation of wetland ecosystems. As human activities continue to encroach upon their natural habitats, the chances of rediscovering these magnificent ducks in the wild become increasingly slim.
Pink-headed ducks were once found in the lower regions north of the Ganges and west of the Brahmaputra River in India, particularly in wetlands and marshes. However, due to their critically endangered status and the lack of recent sightings, it is uncertain if any populations of these ducks still exist in the wild. Conservation efforts remain crucial to protect their remaining habitat and potentially revive their population.