Main Page | See live article | Alphabetical index

Cape Teal

Cape Teal

Sexes are similar
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum:Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Anseriformes
Family: Anatidae
Genus: Anas
Species: capensis
Binomial name
Anas capensis
The Cape Teal, Anas capensis is a dabbling duck of open wetlands in sub-Saharan Africa.

This species is essentially non-migratory, although it moves opportunistically with the rains. Like many southern ducks, the sexes are similar. It is very pale and mainly grey, with a browner back and pink on the bill (young birds lack the pink). The Cape Teal cannot be confused with any other duck in its range.

It is a thinly distributed but widespread duck, rarely seen in large groups except the moulting flocks, which may number up to 2,000.

This species feeds on aquatic plants and small creatures obtained by dabbling. The nest is on the ground under vegetation and near water.

This is a generally quiet species, except during mating displays. The breeding male has a clear whistle, whereas the female has a feeble "quack".