The blue-winged teal is a species of bird in the duck, goose, and swan family Anatidae. One of the smaller members of the dabbling duck group, it occurs in North America, where it breeds from southern Alaska to Nova Scotia, and south to northern Texas. It winters along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts and south into the Caribbean islands and Central America.
Region
North America, Caribbean, and northern South America
Typical Environment
Breeds across much of North America from southern Alaska and central Canada through the northern United States to the Great Lakes and New England, and south into the Plains. In winter it occurs along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts, the Gulf Coast, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and into northern South America. Prefers shallow, vegetated freshwater wetlands, prairie potholes, marshes, and the edges of ponds and lakes. In winter it also uses coastal lagoons, mangroves, flooded fields, and rice paddies.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A small dabbling duck, the blue-winged teal is named for its powder-blue wing coverts, most visible in flight. Males in breeding plumage show a striking white crescent in front of the eye. It is among the earliest North American ducks to migrate south in late summer. Large flocks gather on shallow wetlands during migration and winter.
Blue-winged teal drake in flight at Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge
Males and a female, Richmond, British Columbia
In flight, Ladner, British Columbia
Anas discors - MHNT
Males in Sarpy County, Nebraska
Temperament
social and wary
Flight Pattern
fast, low over water with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Forms small to large flocks outside the breeding season and often mixes with other dabbling ducks. Pairs form in late winter or early spring; nesting is on the ground in dense grass near shallow water. Clutches are typically large, and the female incubates while the male departs early in the season.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Males give soft, high-pitched peeping whistles, especially during courtship and flight. Females produce a softer, nasal quack and various clucks to communicate with ducklings. Vocalizations are generally quiet compared to larger dabbling ducks.
