This bird, also known as the sharp-winged teal, is a common South American duck. It can be found in the highlands of central Peru, northern Chile and Argentina. It is also found distributed throughout the southern half of the continent on lower grounds.

On higher ground, they are pale and silvery in colour. Lowland birds are often a darker, greyish brown colour. In flight and when excited, males give a creaky “peeet” call.

Where in the world?

Native to areas of Peru, Chile, Argentina and Bolivia.

Threats in the wild

• Destruction of habitat
• Hunting and pet trade

Habitat

The yellow-billed teal is found in freshwater lakes, ponds, rivers, marshes and wooded swamps typically at high altitudes, but may move to coastal areas in the winter.

Diet

This bird usually feeds by dabbling, upending or grazing on land. In the breeding season, it mainly eats aquatic invertebrates such as crustaceans, insects, molluscs and worms. In winter, they feed on aquatic plant and grass seeds.

Lifecycle

They breed and build nests at high elevations near freshwater lakes and marshes, but also in coastal lagoons and estuaries in open areas, from sea-level to high mountains. Females will lay between 5 to 12 eggs per clutch and new born chicks will be able to enter the water within 24 hours of hatching.