Brown Teal
NameBrown Teal
Common NameBrown Teal
Scientific NameAnas chlorotis
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)45
Weight (g)700
Plumage DetailsMales have a dark, iridescent green head, a prominent white eye-ring, and a rich chestnut-brown breast with fine spotting. Their flanks are mottled brown, and they have a distinct white patch on the rear flank. Females are generally duller, a more uniform mottled brown overall, lacking the strong green head sheen and white eye-ring, but still possess the white flank patch. Both sexes have dark wings with a metallic green speculum.
Vocalization / CallMales produce soft, high-pitched whistles, especially during courtship. Females emit a low, soft quack.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to New Zealand, primarily found on predator-free offshore islands (e.g., Great Barrier Island, Tiritiri Matangi) and a few restored mainland sites, particularly in Northland.
Identifying FeaturesSmall, dark brown duck, Distinctive white patch on the rear flank (visible on both sexes), Males have an iridescent dark green head and a white eye-ring, Males have a chestnut-brown breast, Nocturnal behavior, Blue-grey bill
Description
The Brown Teal is a small, secretive duck endemic to New Zealand, known for its largely nocturnal habits. Males display a distinctive dark green head and a chestnut breast, while females are a more uniform dull brown. They are typically found in freshwater wetlands and coastal areas.
