Anas strepera
Although male Gadwalls lack the striking plumage of most other ducks, they nevertheless have a dignified appearance. The intricacies of waterfowl plumage-from the bird's overall color to the structure and shading of individual feathers-is as heightened in Gadwalls as in more showy ducks-it just takes a little more effort to notice. Although all ducks are capable of diving, those in the genus Anas (the dabbling ducks) are more likely to be observed tipping up-except the Gadwall, whose diving habits are more developed than others of this clan. Gadwalls have recently expanded their range throughout North America.
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I.D.: General: black-and-white wing patch (often seen in resting birds); white belly. Male: mostly gray; black hindquarters; dark bill. Female: mottled brown; brown bill with orange sides. Size: L 18-22 in. (46-56 cm). Range: uncommon migrant and local breeder in the U.S. Rockies; uncommon migrant and rare visitor to the Canadian Rockies. Habitat: shallow wetlands, lake borders and beaver ponds in the montane. Nesting: typically on the Great Plains; in tall vegetation, sometimes far from water; nest is well concealed in a scraped hollow, often with grass arching overhead; nest is made of grass and other dry vegetation and lined with down. Feeding: dabbles and tips up for leaves, the stems of water plants, tubers and roots; grazes on grass and waste grain during migration; one of the few dabblers to dive routinely for food; also eats aquatic invertebrates, tadpoles and small fish. Voice: Male: simple, singular quack; often whistles harshly. Female: series of high kaak kaaak kak-kak-kak, oscillating in volume. Similar Species: American Wigeon: male has a white forehead and a green swipe trailing from each eye; female lacks the black hindquarters and has a green speculum. Mallard, Northern Pintail and other dabbling ducks: females all generally lack the black hindquarters and the black-and-white wing patch. |
