Common name: Eurasian Teal
Scientific name: Anas crecca
Family: Anatidae

Size:
Body length: 34–38 cm
Wingspan: 58–64 cm
Weight: 250–450 g

Identification:
A small, compact dabbling duck. The male in breeding plumage is striking, with a chestnut head marked by a bold green eye patch bordered with pale lines, a grey body, and a black-and-yellow rear. Females are mottled brown with a subtle pattern, resembling other small ducks but distinguished by their compact size and short bill. In flight, both sexes show a green speculum on the wings.

Habitat:
Freshwater wetlands, marshes, lagoons, shallow lakes, and flooded fields. Prefers calm, shallow water with vegetation.

Status in the UAE:
Common winter visitor. Found widely in wetlands across the country.

Diet:
Omnivorous — feeds on seeds, aquatic plants, algae, and small invertebrates.

Behavior:
Often seen in flocks, sometimes large. Feeds by dabbling at the water surface or grazing in shallow areas. Quick and agile in flight, taking off suddenly when disturbed. Males produce a distinctive whistling call.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)