tadornoides

Tadornoides is a genus of ducks belonging to the shelduck subfamily Tadorninae. The genus currently contains one extant species, the Australian shelduck (Tadorna tadornoides), and one extinct species, the Seychelles shelduck (Tadorna sechellarum). The Australian shelduck is a large, striking duck found throughout southern Australia. It is characterized by its glossy black head, white collar, chestnut belly, and black wings with white specula. Males and females are similar in appearance, though females tend to be slightly smaller. They inhabit a variety of freshwater and saline wetlands, including lakes, swamps, and estuaries.

The extinct Seychelles shelduck was endemic to the Seychelles islands in the western Indian Ocean. It is known from subfossil remains and historical accounts, suggesting it was a distinct species that became extinct in the late 18th or early 19th century, likely due to human activities such as hunting and habitat destruction. Tadornoides ducks are generally considered to be omnivorous, feeding on aquatic vegetation, invertebrates, and small vertebrates. They are often seen in pairs or small flocks, and are known to be strong fliers. Their conservation status varies, with the Australian shelduck currently listed as Least Concern, while the Seychelles shelduck is extinct.