Anas theodori
The Mascarene Teal (*Anas theodori*) was an extinct, small dabbling duck endemic to the Mascarene Islands of Mauritius and Réunion. Described from subfossil remains, it was a close relative of the extant Mallard (*Anas platyrhynchos*) and the Grey Teal (*Anas gracilis*), belonging to the widespread *Anas* genus. This compact waterfowl likely measured around 45-50 cm (17-20 inches) in length, making it slightly smaller than many continental teals. While specific plumage details are inferential...
This species inhabited freshwater wetlands, including ponds, slow-moving rivers, and marshy areas, from sea level to moderate elevations on the volcanic Mascarene Islands.
Its diet primarily consisted of aquatic invertebrates such as insects, larvae, and mollusks, supplemented by plant matter like seeds, roots, and aquatic vegetation, obtained by dabbling.
Likely sharing behavioral patterns with extant *Anas* species, the Mascarene Teal exhibited diurnal activity, primarily foraging during the day and roosting in sheltered areas near water at night. As a dabbling duck, its foraging strategy involved tipping its body to reach submerged vegetation an...
The Mascarene Teal was historically endemic to the Mascarene Islands, specifically Mauritius and Réunion, situated in the southwest Indian Ocean. Subfossil remains confirm its presence on both islands, indicating it was once a native and resident species across available wetland habitats. There i...
Critically Endangered
- The Mascarene Teal was officially described based on subfossil bones, not living specimens, long after its extinction. - It was unique to the remote Mascarene Islands of Mauritius and Réunion, highlighting the rich biodiversity lost in that region. - Its extinction is directly linked to early h...