COLLARED TEAL
Anas collari
DESCRIPTION
The Collared Teal (Anas collari) is a small dabbling duck characterized by its striking coloration and distinctive collar. Males display a vibrant green head, white neck collar, and chestnut-brown body, while females are mottled brown with a subtle pattern. This species is known for its social behavior, often seen in small groups or pairs, and inhabits freshwater wetlands and marshes.
FUN FACTS
- Collared Teals are known for their impressive migratory patterns, traveling long distances between breeding and wintering grounds
- They are also highly adaptable, able to thrive in a variety of wetland environments, which contributes to their resilience as a species.| The male Collared Teal's vibrant plumage is not just for show; it plays a crucial role in attracting females during the breeding season
- Their courtship displays include elaborate swimming and vocalizations that showcase their fitness and health
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild
Average Weight0.5-1 kg
Average Length40-50 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social StructureThey are often found in pairs or small groups, especially during the breeding season.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (March-May)
- Habitat
- Collared Teals thrive in freshwater wetlands, marshes, and shallow lakes. They prefer areas with abundant vegetation for nesting and foraging.
- Biomes
- Wetlands, Freshwater
- Native Range
- The native range of the Collared Teal includes parts of Central and South America, particularly in regions with suitable wetland habitats.
- Continent
- North America, South America
- Countries
- Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela
- Diet
- Collared Teals primarily feed on aquatic plants, seeds, and invertebrates. They forage by dabbling on the water's surface or tipping forward to reach submerged vegetation.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- aquatic plants, seeds, invertebrates
- Social Structure
- They are often found in pairs or small groups, especially during the breeding season.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 2-15
- Territorial
- 0
LC
VU
LC
0.5-1 kg
Weight
40-50 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Males have a green head, white neck collar, and chestnut-brown body; females are mottled brown.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are more colorful than females, with distinct markings.
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 6-12
- Sexual Maturity
- 1 year
- Breeding Season
- Spring (March-May)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Collared Teals is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 50,000-100,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to agriculture and urban development. Pollution and hunting also pose risks to their populations.
- Predators
- Foxes, raccoons, birds of prey, and larger fish can prey on Collared Teal eggs and ducklings.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on their ability to quickly take flight and their cryptic coloration to avoid predators.
- Compatible Animals
- Other dabbling ducks, coots, and various waterfowl
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon