gadwall
1. Bird Name
The subject of this profile is the Gadwall (Anas strepera), a common and widespread dabbling duck species.
2. Appearance
Male Gadwalls are largely gray with intricate patterning that appears solid from a distance. They also display a conspicuous black patch at the rear end, a white speculum visible in flight, and a chestnut brown and black bill. The female Gadwall, on the other hand, is mottled brownish-gray with a yellow bill and is similar in appearance to many other female dabbling ducks, though slightly larger. These birds have orange-red eyes.
3. Size
On average, the Gadwall measures 46 to 56 centimeters (18 to 22 inches) in length. They have a wingspan that ranges from 78 to 89 centimeters (31 to 35 inches), and typically weigh between 700 and 1350 grams (1.5 to 3 pounds).
4. Habitat & Distribution
Gadwalls are found across multiple continents including North America, Europe, and Asia. They prefer wetlands, such as marshes and ponds, where there is a proliferation of aquatic vegetation. They are also known to inhabit coastal areas and are particularly drawn to shallow waters.
5. Interesting Facts
One fun fact about Gadwalls is that they are less vocal than other ducks. Secondly, they are considered a bit “kleptoparasitic.” They often snatch food away from diving birds that come up to the surface. Thirdly, while Gadwalls are habitual migrants, moving to warmer climates during the winter, some populations in the southern United States and Mexico are year-round residents.
6. Diet
Gadwalls feed primarily on plant matter. They pluck vegetation from the water and also consume seeds, roots, and stems of aquatic plants. They do, however, supplement their diet with small invertebrates such as insects and crustaceans.
7. Behavior & Sounds
Gadwalls are a bit deceiving in their seemingly relaxed behavior. They often steal food from other ducks after diving. Their call is typically a short and thin “nheck” sound for females, while males make raspy, grunt-like sounds.
8. Conservation Status
Currently, the Gadwall is listed as of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The population appears to be stable and might even have been increasing in recent years.
9. Lifespan
Gadwalls have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years in the wild. However, in captivity, they may live beyond 20 years.
10. Additional Notes:
In other languages, the Gadwall is known as “Canard chipeau” in French, “Schnatterente” in German, and “Ánade friso” in Spanish. They generally avoid interaction with humans but are often seen in urban and suburban wetlands. In ecosystems, Gadwalls play a part in maintaining plant diversity by consuming and dispersing seeds from the aquatic vegetation they feed on. Furthermore, though inconspicuous in its appearance, the Gadwall’s understated elegance is highly attractive to bird lovers and bird photographers alike.
