The Ferruginous Duck (Aythya nyroca) is a medium-sized diving duck recognized for its rich chestnut-brown or ferruginous plumage, with males having a glossy, dark brown head and body, while females are slightly duller in color. This species has strikingly white undertail feathers and eyes, providing a sharp contrast that makes it easily identifiable in the water. Preferring calm freshwater habitats like lakes, marshes, and slow-moving rivers, the Ferruginous Duck is primarily found in Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa. It feeds by diving for plant matter, insects, and small aquatic animals, showing strong adaptability to different diets based on available resources. Unfortunately, this beautiful duck is considered Near Threatened due to habitat loss, hunting, and environmental pollution, making conservation efforts critical for maintaining its populations.

The Northern Pintail (Anas acuta) is an elegant dabbling duck recognized for its slender neck, pointed tail, and graceful appearance. The males are particularly striking, with a chocolate-brown head, white neck stripe, gray body, and long black tail feathers, while females are more subdued in mottled brown plumage. This species is highly migratory and widely distributed across the Northern Hemisphere, breeding in wetlands and tundra regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. During winter, it migrates to warmer regions, including South Asia, Africa, and parts of the Middle East.

In the UAE, the Northern Pintail is a common winter visitor, often seen in wetland habitats such as Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, and other freshwater bodies. It feeds primarily on seeds, aquatic vegetation, and small invertebrates, foraging by dabbling on the water's surface. The Northern Pintail's graceful flight and striking appearance make it a favorite among birdwatchers and photographers during the migration season.

The Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) is one of the most widespread and recognizable duck species worldwide, known for its adaptability and vibrant plumage, particularly in males, which feature an iridescent green head, yellow bill, and chestnut-brown chest. Found in diverse habitats such as lakes, rivers, marshes, and urban ponds, Mallards are highly versatile, thriving in both freshwater and brackish environments. Omnivorous in diet, they forage for seeds, aquatic plants, insects, and small fish, often seen dabbling at the water’s surface. Known for their remarkable adaptability, Mallards are native to North America, Europe, and Asia, and have been introduced to many other regions. Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, Mallards are common across their range, though hybridization with other duck species has raised concerns about genetic diversity in some populations. Their resilience and adaptability make them a well-known and beloved species in natural and urban settings alike.

The Eurasian Teal (Anas crecca) is a small dabbling duck commonly found across Europe, Asia, and northern Africa. Renowned for its striking plumage, the drake (male) boasts a chestnut-brown head adorned with an iridescent green eye patch, a cream-colored line below the patch, and a speckled gray body, while the female is mottled brown, offering excellent camouflage. Both sexes display the characteristic green speculum on their wings, which is visible during flight. Preferring shallow freshwater habitats such as marshes, lakes, and slow-moving rivers, the Eurasian Teal feeds on seeds, aquatic plants, and small invertebrates. It is a migratory species, spending its winters in milder regions, often forming large flocks. The Eurasian Teal is celebrated for its agility in flight and soft whistling calls, making it a favorite among birdwatchers.

The Fulvous Whistling-Duck (Dendrocygna bicolor) is a striking waterfowl species known for its rich, warm-brown plumage with a distinctive golden hue along its sides and back. These ducks are named for the soft whistling sound they make, which can often be heard as they gather in small flocks around wetland habitats. Found in parts of Africa, South Asia, and the Americas, Fulvous Whistling-Ducks are highly social and prefer freshwater lakes, marshes, and flooded fields where they feed primarily on seeds and aquatic vegetation. They are unique among ducks for their upright posture and relatively long legs, which give them a distinctive silhouette. Known to be strong, graceful fliers, they migrate seasonally, moving to find optimal feeding grounds.

A medium-sized dabbling duck known for its distinctive spatula-shaped bill, which it uses to filter food from the water. This species has a wide distribution, breeding in North America, Europe, and Asia, and migrating to warmer regions, including the UAE, during the winter. Males are easily recognized by their striking plumage, featuring an iridescent green head, white chest, and rusty-red flanks. Females are more subdued, with mottled brown plumage, but they share the characteristic wide, flat bill.