Brown Teal
Anas chlorotis
Aves › Anseriformes › Anatidae › Anas
Conservation status: near_threatened
This dabbling duck feeds mainly on aquatic invertebrates such as insects, their larvae, or crustaceans. It also appears quite fond of molluscs. The species is native to New Zealand.
How To Identify
The male is typically a uniform earthy brown color, while the female shares similar dull plumage. They possess compact bodies and relatively broad, webbed feet suited for navigating muddy bottoms.
Habitat
It inhabits small, shallow freshwater streams, ponds, and wetlands in forested and scrubland areas, preferring dense vegetation for concealment.
Behaviour
Brown Teals are notably shy and nocturnal feeders, spending daylight hours hidden in dense vegetation and becoming active at dusk to forage for invertebrates and plant material.
Native Range
The brown teal is native to New Zealand.
Did You Know?
The Brown Teal is one of the rarest dabbling ducks in the world, having been hunted to near extinction in New Zealand with fewer than 100 individuals remaining in the 1980s. Its remarkable recovery through intensive conservation efforts is considered one of the greatest waterfowl comebacks.
Create a free account to log your sightings of the Brown Teal, see where it has been recorded near you and build your Wild List.
Privacy · Terms · Impressum · Credits · About the beta