A common but pretty little dabbling duck, Teal gather in large numbers in winter on gravel pits, reservoirs and floodplain meadows. Many of these birds are migrants from the cold climes of the Baltic and Siberia. In summer, Teal breed in small numbers in Britain, mostly in the north.
How to identify:
Our smallest duck, male Teal are grey with a speckled breast, a yellow and black tail and a chestnut-coloured head with a bright green eye patch. Females are mottled brown but both sexes show a bright green wing patch in flight.
Where to find it:
Nests in small numbers around the country, particularly in the uplands, but much more common in winter when it can be found on most wetlands.
How people can help:
The large numbers of visiting Teal that frequent the UK make this species an Amber List bird. To ensure that we keep the populations of these colourful ducks, and others like them, healthy, it is important that wetland habitats are managed properly. The Wildlife Trusts are working with other organisations and individuals to create a 'Living Landscape': a network of habitats stretching across town and country, allowing wildlife to move about freely and people to enjoy the benefits of nature. Support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.
Statistics:
Length: 34-38cm Wingspan: 61cm Weight: 350g Average Lifespan: 3 years
Conservation status:
Classified in the UK as an Amber List species under the Birds of Conservation Concern review.
Did you know?:
Collectively, a group of Teal is known as a 'spring' because of the way they can take-off suddenly and vertically, as if sprung from the ground. Watching these birds wheel through a winter sky is a true delight.
