Andean Teal
NameAndean Teal
Common NameAndean Teal
Scientific NameSpatula andina
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)40.5
Weight (g)650
Plumage DetailsOverall grayish-brown plumage with fine dark scaling on the head, neck, and breast. The back and flanks are darker, often with a subtle greenish sheen on the wing coverts. It has a dark bill and dark eyes. The speculum is dark, often with a metallic green or bronze sheen, bordered by buff.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a quiet species. Males may produce soft, high-pitched whistles, while females emit a low, soft quack.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the high Andes mountains of South America, ranging from Colombia south through Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and into northern Chile and Argentina.
Identifying Featuresdrab grayish-brown plumage, dark bill, dark eye, high-altitude wetland habitat, subtle metallic speculum
Description
The Andean Teal is a medium-sized, drab-colored duck native to the high-altitude wetlands of the Andes. It is characterized by its overall grayish-brown plumage and a dark bill. This species is often found foraging in shallow waters.
