Spatula querquedula
The garganey is a small duck, the only species in this family that migrates completely from Europe to sub-Saharan Africa to winter. It is a discreet summer presence in the Danube Delta, being one of the first species to arrive in spring (hence the Hungarian name "Böjti" - from fasting/lent).
The male has a distinctive appearance: the reddish-brown head is crossed by a broad white crescent-shaped stripe running from above the eye to the nape. The rest of the body is grey-brown. The female is small, brown, similar to the teal female, but with a more contrasting facial pattern and a fully grey bill.
Prefers small lakes, temporary marshes and flooded areas with abundant vegetation. In the Danube Delta, it occupies mainly wetlands within the levees and the shores of quiet channels.
It is an active and fast bird. The male emits a characteristic sound, a dry, metallic quack (like a comb run along the edge of a table), heard especially during the breeding season. It feeds at the surface on insects, crustaceans and seeds of aquatic plants.
Nests in tall grass, near water. The nest is built close to the ground, well hidden in dense vegetation.
Global status is "Least Concern" (LC). However, the species is in decline in many parts of Europe due to degradation of breeding habitats and hunting pressure on the long migration route to Africa.