About Harlequin Duck
The harlequin duck is a distinctive sea duck that breeds along fast-flowing rivers in Iceland. It is exceptionally well adapted to turbulent water.
During summer it feeds in rivers, while much of the population moves to the coast outside the breeding season. Iceland supports Europe's only regular breeding population.
Habitat
Fast-flowing rivers and rocky sea coasts
Diet
Aquatic insects, larvae, crustaceans, molluscs and other aquatic animals.
Nesting habitat
Fast-flowing clear rivers when breeding; rocky sea coasts in winter.
Identification
A small compact duck. The male is highly distinctive, blue-grey with bold white and chestnut markings.
Distribution
Breeds along fast-flowing rivers around Iceland and spends winter along the coast.
Interesting facts
Iceland supports Europe's only regular breeding population of harlequin ducks.