Birds
Brazilian Teal
Amazonetta brasiliensis
Flashing a bright red bill and legs against brown plumage, a Brazilian teal ranks among the most commonly encountered ducks anywhere across its wide South American range.
Overview
The Brazilian teal, Amazonetta brasiliensis, is a Least Concern waterfowl species found across freshwater wetlands throughout South America east of the Andes. Its bright red bill and legs in males, abundance across much of the continent, and tendency to form large post-breeding flocks make it one of the most familiar ducks found anywhere in South America.
A splash of colour on common ground
While many South American ducks blend into muted brown and grey tones, the Brazilian teal’s bright red bill and legs give it an unmistakable splash of colour, visible even at a distance across the lakes, rivers, and marshes it calls home.
Status
Least Concern, remaining abundant and widespread across suitable freshwater wetland habitat throughout its South American range.
Brazilian Teal: common questions
How can you identify a Brazilian teal?
Look for a bright red bill and legs in males, contrasting sharply against otherwise brown plumage, one of the easier South American ducks to identify at a glance.
How common is the Brazilian teal?
It is considered one of the most frequently encountered duck species across its wide South American range, found on lakes, rivers, and marshes throughout much of the continent.
What does the Brazilian teal eat?
It is a herbivore, feeding on aquatic plants and seeds found in the shallow freshwater wetlands it inhabits.
Does the Brazilian teal form flocks?
Yes, it gathers in sizable flocks outside the breeding season, congregating on lakes, rivers, and marshes once breeding duties are complete.