SHARP-WINGED TEAL
Anas flavirostris oxyptera
DESCRIPTION
Sharp-winged Teal (Anas flavirostris oxyptera) is a small dabbling duck known for its distinctive sharp wings and vibrant plumage. This species exhibits a striking combination of green, brown, and white colors, making it visually appealing. Sharp-winged Teal is often found in freshwater wetlands and marshes, where it forages for food and engages in social behaviors with other waterfowl.
FUN FACTS
- Sharp-winged Teal is known for its unique courtship displays, which include elaborate swimming patterns and vocalizations to attract mates
- These displays are often performed in the presence of other ducks, showcasing their vibrant colors and agility in the water.| Despite their small size, Sharp-winged Teal are capable fliers and can migrate long distances between breeding and wintering grounds
- Their adaptability to various wetland habitats allows them to thrive in diverse environments
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild
Average Weight300-500 g
Average Length30-35 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social StructureThey are often found in pairs or small groups, especially during the breeding season.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (September-November)
- Habitat
- This species inhabits freshwater wetlands, marshes, and shallow lakes. They prefer areas with abundant vegetation for cover and foraging.
- Biomes
- Wetlands, Freshwater
- Native Range
- Sharp-winged Teal is native to parts of South America, particularly in the Andes and surrounding regions.
- Continent
- South America
- Countries
- Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Peru
- Diet
- Sharp-winged Teal primarily feeds on aquatic plants, seeds, and small invertebrates. They are known to dabble on the water's surface and graze on vegetation.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- aquatic plants, seeds, small invertebrates
- Social Structure
- They are often found in pairs or small groups, especially during the breeding season.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 2-10
- Territorial
- 0
VU
300-500 g
Weight
30-35 cm
Length
- Coloration
- The male has a striking green head with a white stripe, while the female is more mottled brown for camouflage.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are more brightly colored than females.
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 6-12
- Sexual Maturity
- 1 year
- Breeding Season
- Spring (September-November)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Sharp-winged Teal is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to agriculture and urban development. Pollution and climate change also pose risks to their wetland habitats.
- Predators
- Foxes, birds of prey, and larger aquatic mammals may prey on Sharp-winged Teal.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on their ability to quickly take flight and their camouflage to evade predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon