Restricted to L Aloatra region, Madagascar; may have been more widespread formerly on plateau of central Madagascar.
 
Population
Estimated population is <50 (2010) and increasing.
Status CR
Habitat loss through conversion to agriculture, predation by introduced exotic species, hunting and gill-net fishing are the main threats.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Madagascar Pochard (Aythya innotata) [XC536730]
by id from , Madagascar (call)
Madagascar Pochard (Aythya innotata) [XC536728]
by Dries Van de Loock from , Madagascar (call)
Subspecies
Considered by some to form superspecies with Hardhead (Aythya australis), Ferruginous Duck (Aythya nyroca) and Baer's Pochard (Aythya baeri).
No subspecies.
Similar Species
From White-backed Duck (Thalassornis leuconotus) by uniform colouration, dark back and white eye (in male), from Red-knobbed Coot (Fulica cristata) by mostly dark bill. From all other ducks by diving habit and running take-off.
References
See References.