Ringed Teal

Adult males have a pale grey face, a black nape and neck stripe, rich chestnut-red upperparts, finely vermiculated grey flanks, a pinkish-grey breast with dark spots, and a white patch near the black tail. Females are duller with a mottled greyish-brown head, whitish throat and cheeks, and less distinct chestnut backs.

Key field marks include the pale face with a dark neck stripe, rich chestnut mantle, finely vermiculated grey flanks, and blue-grey bill.

Length: 35-38 cm (14-15 inches); Weight: 300-350 grams.

Soft, high-pitched whistles and quiet piping calls, particularly during courtship or when alarmed.

Omnivorous, feeding on seeds, aquatic plants, grasses, insects, and small aquatic invertebrates by dabbling and grazing.

Forested wetlands, riverine forests, lagoons, marshes, and flooded pastures with abundant trees suitable for perching and nesting.

Generally resident or locally nomadic, undertaking minor movements in response to seasonal water availability.

Nests in tree cavities or hollows, laying clutches of 6 to 12 eggs. The female incubates the eggs, and parents lead the precocial ducklings to water shortly after hatching.

Brazilian Teal (Amazonetta brasiliensis), which lacks the distinct black neck stripe and vibrant chestnut mantle of the Ringed Teal.

Acts as a seed disperser and plays a role in aquatic food webs by consuming insects, aquatic vegetation, and small invertebrates.

Least Concern, with a stable population trend.

Look for them in forested wetlands, flooded forests, and swampy areas. They often perch in trees, so scanning overhead branches near water can be fruitful.

Unlike many typical ducks, Ringed Teals are arboreal, frequently perching and nesting high up in trees. They are also quite popular in captivity due to their striking plumage and gentle temperament.