From Opus

Anas capensis

Photo by safariranger
Location: Etosha National Park, Namibia

[edit] Identification

The Cape Teal, Anas capensis is a 44-46 cm long dabbling duck. 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.

The Cape Teal is one of the species to which the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA) applies.

[edit] Distribution

Sub-Saharan Africa. This species is essentially non-migratory, although it moves opportunistically with the rains. It is a thinly distributed but widespread duck, rarely seen in large groups except the moulting flocks, which may number up to 2,000.

[edit] Taxonomy

Gmelin, 1789

Monotypic.

[edit] Habitat

Open wetlands.

[edit] Behaviour

This species feeds on aquatic plants and small creatures obtained by dabbling. The nest is on the ground under vegetation and near water. It is a generally quiet species, except during mating displays. The breeding male has a clear whistle, whereas the female has a feeble "quack".

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