Gadwall

Gadwalls (Anas Strepera) are medium sized migratory ducks that migrate to India during the winters. They are found across Asia, Europe and North America. They are found near lakes, marshes, reed beds and other water bodies, and they are often overlooked due to their dull plumage. The male is dark brown with a black patch on its tail, and the female is patterned with brown with a thin orange edge to its dark bill. Males are slightly larger than the females. They are usually sighted in pairs during winters.

A pair of Gadwall, Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary, Bharatpur

These birds love open spaces, and feed on submerged vegetation like algae, stems, roots, seeds, etc. by dabbling in the water, along with other dabbling ducks. Gadwalls are known to steal food from other birds like coots and ducks. During the breeding season, they supplement their food with insects, snails and other invertebrates.

Gadwall in flight, Surajpur Bird Sanctuary, Greater Noida

A family of Gadwalls at Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary, Bharatpur

Gadwalls form flocks like other ducks, and they display elaborate mating behavior while attracting their mates or warning off other ducks. Their numbers are growing though they are highly prized by hunters, and are placed in the category of “Least Concern” by IUCN. These ducks are often confused for mallards.