Mike Dilger on the Long-tailed Duck

Available for over a year

The long-tailed duck is a winter visitor to the north of Britain, travelling from its breeding grounds in the Arctic Circle to overwinter at a few special sites, such as Scotland's Moray Coast, where they can be found between November and April. Male long-tailed have black and white plumage, dusky cheek patches and trademark long, black tail plumes. Female long-tailed ducks tend to have browner plumage. These diving ducks mainly eat shellfish and small fish, and are known for their yodelling calls. Ecologist and TV presenter Mike Dilger is a big fan of these 'dapper' creatures, and remembers seeing them on a filming trip to Canada's High Arctic, where they were nesting on the high tundra. Presented by Mike Dilger and produced by Jo Peacey. A BBC Audio Bristol Production.