Eurasian Teal

The smallest dabbling duck in Europe. It is a compact and active bird. It lives in marshes, small ponds, and flooded fields. During harsh winters, it moves to the coast. It is a hardy migrant and flies long distances from Northern Europe and Russia. Both sexes have brilliant green wing patches called a speculum.

Teals are famous for explosive take-offs. They jump vertically from the water when startled. They are very social and form large, dense flocks in winter. These flocks often move in perfect synchronization. They feed by filtering mud for seeds and small insects. Males make a musical, whistling 'kri-kit' call.