The marbled duck or marbled teal is a medium-sized species of duck from southern Europe, northern Africa, and western and central Asia. The scientific name, Marmaronetta angustirostris, comes from the Greek marmaros, marbled and netta, a duck, and Latin angustus, narrow or small and -rostris billed.
Region
Mediterranean Basin and Western–Central Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds patchily from southern Iberia and North Africa through the Middle East to Iran and western Central Asia. Prefers shallow, eutrophic or brackish lakes, marshes, and steppe pools with dense reeds, sedges, tamarisks, or other emergent cover. Frequently uses temporary wetlands and flooded agricultural lands such as rice fields when natural habitats shrink. In winter it shifts to coastal lagoons, irrigation reservoirs, and sheltered estuaries. It generally avoids fast-flowing rivers and exposed marine coasts.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the marbled teal, it is the sole member of the genus Marmaronetta. It favors shallow, often temporary, brackish wetlands with dense emergent vegetation and is highly sensitive to water abstraction and wetland drainage. Its cryptic, marbled plumage provides excellent camouflage among reeds. Global numbers have declined due to habitat loss and degradation across the Mediterranean and West–Central Asia.
Eggs, Collection Museum Wiesbaden
Close-up of head
Temperament
skulking and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; fast, direct flight
Social Behavior
Often forms small to medium flocks outside the breeding season, sometimes mixing with other ducks. Breeds in dense cover near shallow water; nests are placed on the ground and lined with down. Pairs are seasonally monogamous, and broods are led to well-vegetated feeding areas soon after hatching.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet; males give soft, wheezy whistles during display. Females produce low, nasal quacks and soft contact calls within cover.
