Anas andium
The Andean Teal (Anas andium) is a charismatic and diminutive dabbling duck endemic to the high-altitude wetlands of the Andes. Measuring approximately 38-43 cm (15-17 inches) in length with a wingspan of around 60 cm, it presents a striking appearance with its contrasting dark cap and pale buffy-white cheeks and throat. Its overall plumage is mottled brown on the back and flanks, fading to a creamy white on the belly, punctuated by a glossy iridescent green speculum on its secondary flight f...
Primarily inhabits high-altitude freshwater wetlands, including lakes, lagoons, marshes, and slow-moving rivers, typically found at elevations between 2,000 and 4,500 meters (6,500-14,800 feet). It prefers open water with emergent vegetation for cover and foraging.
An omnivorous diet consisting mainly of aquatic invertebrates such as insects and their larvae, crustaceans, and mollusks, supplemented with seeds, leaves, and stems of aquatic plants. It primarily forages by dabbling and grazing in shallow water or along shorelines.
The Andean Teal is predominantly diurnal, spending its days foraging in shallow waters and along shorelines, often congregating in small flocks outside the breeding season. Foraging is characterized by typical dabbling duck behavior, involving "up-ending" to reach submerged vegetation and inverte...
The Andean Teal is a resident species distributed throughout the high Andes Mountains of South America, typically found at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,500 meters (6,500 to 14,800 feet). Its range extends from Colombia and Ecuador south through Peru and Bolivia, into Chile, and northwestern...
Least Concern
- The Andean Teal is one of the highest-dwelling duck species in the world, regularly found at elevations exceeding 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). - Its ability to thrive in low-oxygen, cold environments is a testament to its remarkable physiological adaptations. - Despite its widespread distributio...