The yellow-billed teal is a South American species of duck. Like other teals, it belongs to the diverse genus Anas; more precisely it is one of the "true" teals of subgenus Nettion. It occurs in Argentina, the Falkland Islands, Chile, Peru, Bolivia, Uruguay, and Brazil. It has also established itself in South Georgia, where it was first recorded breeding in 1971, and has been recorded as far east as Tristan da Cunha. It inhabits freshwater wetlands, preferring palustrine habitat to rivers. Considering its wide range and local abundance, it is not considered threatened by the IUCN.
Region
Southern and Andean South America (with outlying subantarctic islands)
Typical Environment
Occurs in Argentina, Chile, Peru, Bolivia, Uruguay, Brazil, and the Falkland Islands; established on South Georgia and recorded as far as Tristan da Cunha. It uses freshwater wetlands, shallow lakes, marshes, ponds, flooded grasslands, and quiet backwaters, generally preferring still or slow-moving water over rivers. In the Andes it occupies puna lakes and bogs, while in the south it frequents Patagonian steppe wetlands and coastal lowlands. It tolerates some brackish conditions and will visit agricultural wetlands such as rice fields.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 4500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The yellow-billed teal is a small dabbling duck widespread across southern and Andean South America, easily recognized by its bright yellow bill with a dark culmen. It frequents shallow freshwater wetlands from sea level marshes to high Andean lakes. Pairs or small groups are common outside the breeding season, and ground nests are hidden in dense grasses near water. Its broad range and local abundance currently keep it out of conservation concern.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; strong, low over-water flier
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small flocks; larger aggregations form where food is abundant. Nests are shallow ground scrapes concealed in grasses near water, lined with down. Breeding is seasonal, with the female incubating and the male remaining nearby. Typical clutches contain around 6–10 eggs.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Males give soft whistled notes during display, while females produce a lower, harsher quack. Calls are most frequent during courtship and when birds are flushed from cover.
