Rare ducklings hatch at Chester Zoo
Maccoa ducks are diving ducks often found in nutrient-rich wetland habitats, like freshwater wetlands and lakes.They are known for their stiff tails and deep-blue bills.The species is listed as endangered on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature's (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.Habitat degradation, water pollution and climate change have been blamed for the species decline.
There are just twelve zoos in the world that look after Maccoa ducks. Andrew Owen, Head of Birds at Chester Zoo, said:"This success gives a real boost to the future of the species... These birds are facing rapid decline in the wild, so every hatchling really does count."
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