Gadwall

1 day ago

Spotted

The Gadwall is a medium-sized dabbling duck known for its subtle beauty, particularly the male's finely patterned grey body, black rear, and distinctive white speculum (wing patch) visible in flight and at rest. Females are mottled brown, similar to a female Mallard, but with a smaller, all-dark bill. It's often found in freshwater marshes and lakes.

Where to spot

Widespread across the Northern Hemisphere, breeding in temperate regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. Winters south of its breeding range in southern North America, Mexico, parts of Central America, Africa, and southern Asia. Favors marshes, ponds, and lakes with abundant emergent vegetation.

How to spot

Look for the male's intricate grey body plumage and the prominent white speculum on the wing, which is easily seen even when the bird is resting. Females are brown with a uniformly dark bill and also show the white speculum in flight.

When to spot

Can be observed year-round in resident populations. Migratory populations are best seen during spring and autumn (March-May and September-November) as they travel to and from breeding grounds.

Where to spot

How to spot

When to spot

Can be observed year-round in resident populations. Migratory populations are best seen during spring and autumn (March-May and September-November) as they travel to and from breeding grounds.