Hi Mike,
If its any consolation I too had it down as a possible juv./female Red-crested Pochard even after looking through the guide books. I did however see the bird thrusting its head (as shown in Hendrix Photo 2) on several occasions which should have helped identify it. I made a few sketches in my bird note book just in case, but luckily Hendrix came along with his camera around 08:30.
I first picked it up at 06:50 this morning, but can say for sure it has not been in with the Tufted Duck flock since Tuesday 4th December because I've been doing dawn bird counts from the canvas hide every day since then. I'll check again tomorrow.
Great photos Hendrix.
Bena Smith
WWF Reserve Officer
