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Ringed teal
The ringed teal is a small, elegant duck native to South America, where it inhabits freshwater wetlands, marshes, lagoons, and seasonally flooded grasslands. Its subtle grey body, pale face, and distinctive dark “ringed” patterning around the neck give the species its name. Males also display striking chestnut flanks and iridescent wing patches, making them easy to identify on the water.
You can find our ringed ducks on the lake around our Lemur Islands.
Class:
Aves
Order:
Anseriformes
Family:
Anatidae
About the ringed teal
Ringed teals are omnivores, feeding on a mix of seeds, aquatic plants, and small invertebrates. They typically forage by dabbling at the water’s surface or picking food from shallow vegetation. Their lightweight build and long tail give them a more upright posture than many other ducks.
These birds are usually seen in pairs or small flocks, especially outside the breeding season. Nests are commonly built in tree cavities or elevated vegetation above water, and ducklings are known for their bold, agile movements soon after hatching.
Conservation
The ringed teal is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, but some populations across South America are affected by wetland drainage, habitat conversion, and local hunting. Loss of marshes and shallow lagoons reduces suitable feeding and nesting areas. Conservation efforts focus on wetland protection to preserve healthy ecosystems essential for the species’ long‑term survival.