Anas nesiotis
The Campbell Teal (Anas nesiotis) is a diminutive, flightless dabbling duck endemic to New Zealand's remote subantarctic Campbell Island group. Measuring approximately 35-48 cm (14-19 inches) in length and weighing 300-600g (10.5-21 oz), it sports a largely dark brown plumage, often with a subtle iridescent green sheen on the male's head. Distinctive field marks include its small, compact body, the bright green speculum on its wings (visible when preening or stretching), and the female's prom...
This species inhabits dense tussock grasslands, coastal scrub, and riparian vegetation along stream edges on subantarctic islands, primarily at low elevations near the coast.
The Campbell Teal primarily feeds on a variety of terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates, including insect larvae, crustaceans, mollusks, and worms, supplemented with some seeds and plant matter.
Primarily nocturnal and crepuscular, the Campbell Teal spends its days concealed within dense vegetation, emerging at dusk to forage. It employs a dabbling technique, sifting through mud and shallow water, as well as grubbing in moist soil for invertebrates. These ducks are highly territorial, pa...
The Campbell Teal is an iconic island endemic, historically confined to the New Zealand subantarctic Campbell Island group. While previously thought to be extinct across its entire historical range, a remnant population was discovered on tiny Dent Island in 1975. Through intensive conservation ef...
Endangered
- Thought extinct for 70 years until its rediscovery on Dent Island in 1975, a small islet near Campbell Island. - It is one of the world's few truly flightless duck species, a rare adaptation found primarily on remote islands. - This species is largely nocturnal, foraging under the cover of dark...