Waterfowl Identification in the Central Flyway
Blue-Winged Teal (Blue-Wing)
Male - Winter
Body: Small duck, less than 1 pound, 12-16 inches long. Pale grayish cinnamon with numerous black spots. Head purplish with distict white crescent. White spot on flank. Bill black. Feet dull gold. Wings: Lesser and middle coverts sky blue; greater coverts form distinct white bar. Speculum green. Voice: Whistling peep. In Flight: Small erratic flyer. Blue wing-patch and white crescent visible up close.
Male - Fall
Ranging from mottled dull brown to near-winter coloration. Bill, feet and wings same as in winter.
Female - All Seasons
Body: Mottled brown with white belly. Head somewhat lighter brown. Bill grayish black with black spots. Feet dull greenish yellow. Wings: Similar to male except white bar blotched with gray. Voice: High-pitched quack.
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