The Hottentot Teal is a small, distinctive dabbling duck found across much of sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar. It is characterized by its blue-grey bill, dark cap, and finely spotted flanks.
Where to spot
Found in shallow, freshwater wetlands, marshes, ponds, and lagoons, especially those with abundant emergent vegetation, across sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar.
How to spot
Look for its small size, dark crown, blue-grey bill, and spotted flanks. They often feed by dabbling in shallow water, sometimes upending to reach submerged vegetation, often in pairs or small groups.
When to spot
A year-round resident, though local movements can occur depending on water availability and food resources. Most active during the day, particularly early morning and late afternoon.
Where to spot
Found in shallow, freshwater wetlands, marshes, ponds, and lagoons, especially those with abundant emergent vegetation, across sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar.
How to spot
Look for its small size, dark crown, blue-grey bill, and spotted flanks. They often feed by dabbling in shallow water, sometimes upending to reach submerged vegetation, often in pairs or small groups.
When to spot
A year-round resident, though local movements can occur depending on water availability and food resources. Most active during the day, particularly early morning and late afternoon.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
The Hottentot Teal is one of the few duck species that regularly forms mixed flocks with other waterfowl, particularly in southern Africa, often associating with species like the Red-billed Teal.
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