common teal

The Common Teal (Anas crecca) is a small, vibrant dabbling duck that is widely distributed across Eurasia and North Africa. Known for its agile flight and striking colors, it is a favorite among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Measuring between 34-38 cm in length, the Common Teal is the smallest duck in many of its native regions. The male features a distinctive chestnut-colored head with a broad, iridescent green patch running through the eye. Females are more subtly colored with mottled brown plumage, providing excellent camouflage. Both sexes display a brilliant green speculum (wing patch) that is visible during flight.

Common Teals prefer shallow freshwater wetlands, such as marshes, ponds, and lagoons with plenty of emergent vegetation. During the winter months, they can also be found in coastal estuaries, salt marshes, and sheltered bays where they congregate in large numbers.

These ducks are primarily omnivorous. Their diet consists of seeds from aquatic plants, grasses, and sedges, as well as small invertebrates like insects, larvae, and mollusks. They typically feed by dabbling on the water's surface or filtering through mud in shallow areas.

Breeding usually takes place in secluded areas near water. The female builds a well-concealed nest on the ground, tucked away in thick grass or heather. She typically lays a clutch of 8 to 11 eggs, which are incubated for about 21-23 days. The nest is often lined with soft down feathers for warmth.

The Common Teal is a highly gregarious species, especially outside the breeding season, forming large, noisy flocks. They are famous for their remarkable aerial agility, often taking off almost vertically from the water. The males produce a distinctive, high-pitched whistling call.

The Common Teal is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. While their populations are stable in many areas, they remain sensitive to the loss of wetland habitats and the impacts of water pollution.

1. The Common Teal is the smallest dabbling duck found in Europe and Asia.
2. The name 'teal' has become a standard color name, inspired by the beautiful green patch on the male's head.
3. They are incredibly fast flyers and can reach speeds that make them difficult for predators to catch.

• Look for them in sheltered wetlands during the winter when they gather in large groups.
• Listen for the male's unique 'preep-preep' whistle to help locate the flock.
• Bring a good pair of binoculars to spot the bright green wing patch when they stretch their wings.

The Common Teal is a resilient and beautiful member of the waterfowl family. By protecting our global wetlands, we ensure that these small but mighty ducks continue to grace our skies and waterways for generations to come.