cinnamon teal
1. Bird Name
The bird species in focus is the Cinnamon Teal, known scientifically as Spatula cyanoptera.
2. Appearance
The Cinnamon Teal is a striking and dimorphic species. Males are well-known for their rich, reddish-brown overall plumage, which gives the bird its common name. An additional distinctive feature is the male’s red eyes, long, dark bill, and azure-blue patch on the upper wing. On the other hand, the females and juveniles bear a more muted color scheme. They are mainly mottled brown with a paler belly. The females also have dark eyes instead of red and a grayish-blue patch on their wings.
3. Size
An adult Cinnamon Teal typically measures from 38-43 cm (15-17 inches) long. The bird’s wingspan ranges between 56-64 cm (22-25 inches), and they commonly weigh from 285-510 grams (0.63-1.12 pounds).
4. Habitat & Distribution
Primarily a bird of the Americas, the Cinnamon Teal can be found from the western parts of the United States, through Central America, and down into South America as far as northern Argentina and Chile. These birds have a particular fondness for marshes, wetlands, and ponds. They’re also known to inhabit high-altitude lakes during the breeding season.
5. Interesting Facts
A captivating fact about the Cinnamon Teal is their migratory habits. Unlike most ducks, individuals from the far north travel along a coastal route to avoid high mountain ranges during migration. Another unique aspect of this species is their early breeding season which starts by mid-March. Also, it’s interesting to note that Cinnamon Teals are the only North American duck species where males assist in choosing the nest site.
6. Diet
The Cinnamon Teal mainly feeds upon plant material and seeds but also eats aquatic invertebrates and insects when available. They usually feed by dabbling on the water’s surface but are also known to upend or dive underwater for food.
7. Behavior & Sounds
These birds show crepuscular behavior, which means they are most active at dawn and dusk. Their call is a soft, high-pitched ‘peep’ or ‘kreep’, usually given in flight. Their nesting style is also interesting: nests are built on dry ground and hidden amongst vegetation, preferably close to water bodies for easy access to food and quick escape to safety.
8. Conservation Status
The Cinnamon Teal is listed as a species of ‘Least Concern’ on the IUCN Red List. However, habitat destruction and degradation in particular areas could potentially lead to its future threatened status.
9. Lifespan
The average lifespan of a Cinnamon Teal in the wild is about 13 years, though many do not survive beyond their first year due to predation and other environmental risks. In a controlled environment or captivity, they can live longer, extending up to 20 years.
10. Additional Notes
Locally, this bird is known as Cerceta colorada in Spanish and Sarcelle cannelle in French. Cinnamon Teals have a significant impact on their ecosystem, providing an essential link in the food chain. As consumers of invertebrates and plants, they help control these populations and disperse seeds. Also, they’re a food source for larger predators. Cinnamon Teals, although shy by nature, can become accustomed to human presence in marshes and parks, contributing to birdwatching tourism in several regions.
