The Cape teal (Anas capensis) also Cape wigeon or Cape widgeon is a 44–46 cm long dabbling duck of open wetlands in sub-Saharan Africa.
Like many southern ducks, the sexes are similar. It is very pale and mainly grey, with a browner back and pink on the bill (young birds lack the pink). This is a generally quiet species, except during mating displays. The breeding male has a clear whistle, whereas the female has a feeble "quack". The Cape teal cannot be confused with any other duck in its range.
This species is essentially non-migratory, although it moves opportunistically with the rains. It is a thinly distributed but widespread duck, rarely seen in large groups except the moulting flocks, which may number up to 2000.
The Cape teal feeds on aquatic plants and small creatures (invertebrates, crustaceans and amphibians) obtained by dabbling. The nest is on the ground under vegetation and near water.
The Cape teal is one of the species to which the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA) applies.
Diet & Behavior
Diet: Omnivorous, dabbling for aquatic plants, seeds, insects, crustaceans, and tadpoles.
Behavior: Primarily nocturnal, often solitary or in small groups, but large flocks form during moulting.
Reproduction
Nesting: Builds a ground scrape concealed by vegetation, often on islands or near water.
Eggs: Lays 4-13 eggs, incubated by the female for about 25-30 days.
Chicks: Follow their mother to water immediately, fledging in about 6 weeks.
Other Facts
Conservation: Listed as "Least Concern" by IUCN.
Nomadic: Moves opportunistically following rains rather than migrating long distances.
