Oxyura maccoa (near-threatened)

This cute-looking duck is an uncommon resident and nomad at freshwater dams, lakes and lagoons. Its chestnut body, black head and bright blue bill make it easy to distinguish from other duck species.

I first recorded this comical, stiff-tailed duck in November 2011 while birding Strandfontein Sewage Works with Gordon Botha.

From a Gauteng perspective, a reliable spot for this species, during late summer, is Glen Austin Bird Sanctuary in Midrand as well as freshwater dams and lakes in and around Devon. My most memorable experience was at Bullfrog Pan in Benoni, where a family of mom, dad and 8 little ones treated us to amazing views and behavior.