Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Ruff

Scientific name: Philomachus pugnax


Ruff

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: SCOLOPACIDAE

Group: Birds

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 30 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.04-30.04

Gestation: 20 à 22 jours

Births: 21.05-22.06


Habitat:
Wetlands and marshes

Description:
The Ruff is a medium-sized wader bird, easily recognizable by its colorful plumage and relatively large size for a bird in its family. The male is particularly distinctive during the breeding season, with vibrant plumage ranging from brown and white to red and orange, and a large ruff that surrounds its head. Outside the breeding season, the male loses its bright colors and presents a more subdued plumage similar to the female. This wader inhabits wetlands, marshes, and riverbanks across Europe and Asia. During the breeding season, males engage in spectacular courtship displays to attract females, including throat inflations and dances. The Ruff primarily feeds on small invertebrates and aquatic plants. It migrates south for the winter. While its population remains relatively stable, it is threatened by habitat loss due to the draining of wetlands and pollution.

Recommended lens:
>=300 mm

Photography tips:

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