Order: Anseriformes
Family: Anatidae
Status: Category III (VU) — Vulnerable species

Importance of the taxon for gene pool preservation:
Polytypic genus representative with significant importance for preserving the species’ gene pool in Turkmenistan.

Distribution:
Lower reaches of the Etrek River, along Karakumderya and Amudarya, Murgab and Tejen Rivers, wetlands of the Ahal region. Outside Turkmenistan — Mediterranean, Western and South Asia. Winters in southern Egypt, northwest India, Pakistan, and Iran.

Habitat:
Shallow freshwater lakes with muddy shores and bottoms, near farmland areas.

Number and trends:
In the first half of the 20th century, population in the Southeastern Caspian region numbered tens of thousands. By late 1940s, became rare in all water bodies. From 1999 to 2002, an average of 22 specimens recorded in the Caspian Sea area. Recently not recorded. Sightings in Kelif lakes only in January 2002 and 2003 (10 and 15 individuals respectively). Possible breeding along Amudarya River and adjacent lakes. Observations in January 2019 (8 birds near Goushut canal, Kaka district), January 2021 (6 birds 100 km north of Ashgabat on main Turkmen Lake collector), December 2021 (about 100 near Gyzylkak village, 150 near Bukurlen village). In Jan–Feb 2022, flocks of 3–5 birds found 25–55 km north of Ashgabat; May 27, 2022 — female with 6 nestlings near Mollakurban.

Main limiting factors:
Habitat degradation and uncontrolled hunting.

Biological peculiarities:
Migratory and nesting species; some overwinter. Arrives late April, leaves November. Feeds mainly on plants and small invertebrates in shallow waters.

Breeding:
Not studied.

Conservation actions:
Listed on the IUCN Red List (Category VU, criteria A2cd+3cd+4cd). Included in the Red Data Book of Turkmenistan since 1985. Listed in Annex II of the Bonn Convention (CMS) and AEWA Agreement. Protected in the Hazar and Amudarya State Nature Reserves, Kelif and Sarykamysh Sanctuaries. Habitats included in the Important Bird Areas (IBA) network.

Proposed conservation measures:
Include 15th Anniversary of Independence reservoir in Kelif Sanctuary. Strengthen public awareness and protection enforcement.

Research proposals:
Regular counts in flyways and wintering sites; search for breeding sites.