Grey Teal

01 · Identification

How to tell it apart

The Grey Teal is a small, mottled grey-brown dabbling duck measuring 42–44 cm. Unlike many waterfowl, the sexes share identical plumage year-round. Adults are characterized by a distinctive crimson-red iris, which is duller brown in juveniles, and a uniform leaden blue-grey bill. The head features a dark crown that contrasts sharply with a conspicuously pale, cream-colored throat and cheek. In flight, the species reveals a fast, agile wingbeat, displaying a prominent white wedge and a glossy green speculum. Highly nomadic and gregarious, Grey Teal often form large, restless flocks capable of tracking rainfall across vast distances to colonize temporary inland floodwaters. They forage by dabbling or upending in shallow water to consume seeds, aquatic plants, and invertebrates. While found in almost any body of shallow water, including billabongs and farm dams, they frequently move to coastal estuaries and saltmarshes during periods of drought. The species is vocal, particularly at night; females give a loud, rapid, descending series of quacks, while males produce a soft, high-pitched "preep" or whistle. Identification requires care to distinguish them from the nearly identical female Chestnut Teal. The Grey Teal is best identified by its significantly paler face and throat, which lack the warm, buffy-brown tones and heavy streaking of the Chestnut Teal. It also lacks the prominent dark facial stripes and pale eyebrow of the larger Pacific Black Duck.

Description · BirdUp · CC BY-SA 4.0

1. 01

   Strikingly pale face and throat contrasting with dark crown

   A distinct head pattern with a pale, often cream-colored face and throat sharply contrasting with a darker, subtly streaked crown.

2. 02

   Vivid crimson-red iris (adults)

   A distinctive feature in adult birds, though requires a reasonably close view.

3. 03

   Overall pale grey-brown body plumage

   Gives a muted, lighter appearance compared to many other duck species.