Puna Teal

The Puna teal (Spatula puna) is a dabbling duck of modest size, comparable to the familiar wood duck. It boasts a distinctive black cap that extends below the eyes, contrasting with its creamy white lower face and neck. The upper tail coverts present a subtle gray, while the rear flanks are adorned with dark brown, thinly striped plumage. The back, chest, and lower flanks are a light coffee hue, speckled with dark brown spots. A notable feature is its large, light blue bill, bisected by a black line.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Puna teal, look for the striking black cap and the creamy white that graces the lower face and neck. The bird's bill is a key feature, being light blue with a central black stripe. The speckled coffee and brown plumage on the body can also aid in identification.

Habitat

The Puna teal is a resident of the high Andean plateaus, where it frequents the larger lakes and pools within the altiplano region.

Distribution

This species is indigenous to the Andes, with its range spanning across Peru, western Bolivia, northern Chile, and the extreme northwestern reaches of Argentina.

Behaviour

In their natural habitat, Puna teals are often observed in small, intimate groups, either amongst their own kind or in the company of the closely related silver teal. Both parents are involved in rearing the ducklings, a trait shared with swans and geese. Nesting occurs in long grass, sometimes at a distance from water bodies, and takes place between April and June. The eggs are a creamy pink shade, and the bond between male and female may persist over the long term.

Breeding

Breeding pairs of Puna teal lay their eggs in the seclusion of long grass, not always in proximity to water. The eggs, creamy pink in color, are tended to by both parents, reflecting a shared commitment to the next generation.

Similar Species

The Puna teal is often associated with the silver teal, to which it is closely related and with which it may be found in mixed groups.

Conservation status

The Puna teal is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.