Brown Teal
Anas chlorotis
Near ThreatenedAves · Anseriformes · Anatidae
About
The brown teal is a species of dabbling duck of the genus Anas native to New Zealand. For many years it had been considered to be conspecific with the flightless Auckland and Campbell teals in Anas aucklandica; the name "brown teal" has also been largely applied to that entire taxon. Common in the early years of European colonisation, the "brown duck" was heavily harvested as a food source. Its numbers quickly fell, especially in the South Island, and in 1921 they became fully protected. Captive breeding and releasing into predator-controlled areas has seen good localised populations re-introduced around the country in recent years.
Fun Fact
The newly released flocks exclusively contain these birds of captive origin, and diversity is perhaps now not being fully represented in the National population.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Occurs predominantly on offshore islands but also in predator-proof sanctuaries on the mainland such as Tawharanui Regional Park.
Diet
Diet consists mainly of aquatic invertebrates like insects and their larvae, or crustaceans.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Hunting and Collection
- Climate Change