Wigeon (Anas penelope) पेसन, पटारी, फरिया, छोटा लालसिर - Birds Around Me 0130

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The Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope), known in Hindi by names such as पेसन, पटारी, फरिया, and छोटा लालसिर, is a graceful dabbling duck that visits India during the winter months. Belonging to the family Anatidae, it is a medium‑sized duck measuring about 45–50 cm in length with a wingspan of 75–86 cm.  

Wigeon (Anas penelope) पेसन, पटारी, फरिया, छोटा लालसिर
Male Wigeon (Anas penelope) पेसन, पटारी, फरिया, छोटा लालसिर


Male Wigeons are striking in appearance. They have a chestnut head with a distinctive yellowish crown, gray body, and white shoulder patches that flash in flight. Females are more subdued, mottled brown with a pale belly, blending well into wetland habitats. Both sexes are excellent swimmers and dabblers, feeding mainly on aquatic plants, grasses, and occasionally small invertebrates.  

Wigeon (Anas penelope) पेसन, पटारी, फरिया, छोटा लालसिर Iceland, July 2025
Female Wigeon (Anas penelope) पेसन, पटारी, फरिया, छोटा लालसिर
Iceland, July 2025


In India, Wigeons are widespread winter migrants, arriving in large flocks to wetlands, lakes, marshes, and river backwaters. They are often seen alongside other ducks such as Gadwalls, Pintails, and Shovelers. Their soft whistling calls are a familiar sound in northern wetlands during the migratory season.  

The Eurasian Wigeon breeds in the northern latitudes of Europe and Asia, nesting near freshwater lakes and rivers. After breeding, they undertake long migrations southward, with India serving as an important wintering ground.  

Culturally, the bird’s Hindi names reflect its recognition among local communities. “छोटा लालसिर” (Chhota Lalsir) refers to the male’s reddish head, while “पेसन” and “पटारी” are traditional vernacular names used by hunters and birdwatchers.  

Globally, the species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, with stable populations. However, habitat loss and wetland degradation remain threats to its wintering grounds.  

Hindi Names of Wigeon (Anas penelope) पेसन, पटारी, फरिया, छोटा लालसिर 


Ashutosh Jhureley @BirdsAroundMe


Birds Around Me - Ashutosh Jhureley


Wigeon (Anas penelope) पेसन, पटारी, फरिया, छोटा लालसिर Iceland, July 2025
Female Wigeon (Anas penelope) पेसन, पटारी, फरिया, छोटा लालसिर
Iceland, July 2025


Wigeon (Anas penelope) पेसन, पटारी, फरिया, छोटा लालसिर Iceland, July 2025
Female Wigeon (Anas penelope) पेसन, पटारी, फरिया, छोटा लालसिर
Iceland, July 2025


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