Common name: Garganey
Scientific name: Spatula querquedula
Family: Anatidae

Size:
Body length: 37–41 cm
Wingspan: 59–67 cm
Weight: 250–450 g

Identification:
A small, elegant dabbling duck. The male in breeding plumage is distinctive with a bold white crescent stripe above the eye extending toward the nape, a brown head, and finely patterned grey body. The female is mottled brown, similar to other small ducks, but can be identified by structure and subtle facial markings. Both sexes show a pale blue-grey forewing in flight.

Habitat:
Shallow freshwater wetlands, marshes, ponds, flooded fields, and reed-fringed water bodies.

Status in Lebanon:
Common passage migrant and local breeder. Found in suitable freshwater wetlands, especially during migration and breeding season.

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

Behavior:
Usually seen in small groups. Feeds by dabbling at the water surface or tipping forward. More active during dawn and dusk. During migration, can form larger flocks. Quiet compared to many other ducks.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)