Chestnut Teal
Anas castanea
Aves › Anseriformes › Anatidae › Anas
Conservation status: least_concern
The chestnut teal is a dabbling duck found in Australia. It is protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.
How To Identify
This medium-sized dabbling duck features plumage that can range from rich chestnut brown, particularly on the head and breast of mature males, to duller olive or chocolate tones across the body. Males often exhibit distinct coloring contrasting with a slightly paler underside.
Habitat
This species inhabits shallow freshwater and brackish lakes, swamps, and coastal lagoons across Australia, preferring areas with abundant aquatic vegetation.
Behaviour
Chestnut Teals are highly social and often gather in large flocks, and they are predominantly nocturnal feeders, moving to deeper water during the day to rest and avoid predators.
Native Range
The chestnut teal is commonly distributed in south-eastern and south-western Australia, while vagrants may occur elsewhere. The chestnut teal is commonly distributed in south-eastern and south-western Australia, while vagrants may occur elsewhere.
Did You Know?
Chestnut Teals are one of the few duck species where females are more colorful than males, with rich chestnut plumage that makes them easily distinguishable. They are also highly nomadic, following rainfall patterns across Australia rather than adhering to fixed migration routes.
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