Grey Teal

Our most widespread duck, the Grey Teal, Anas gracilis, is easily mistaken for the female Chestnut Teal. (‘Anas’ = ‘duck’ and ‘gracilis’ = ‘slender’ – referring to the rather slender neck when extended). The white patch on the throat and chin is more pronounced and extensive on the Grey Teal. The Grey Teal is a smallish duck. The sexes are alike.

Female Chestnut Teal                                                     Grey Teal

Grey Teal can be seen as pairs or as huge flocks on almost any water body; fresh, brackish or saline. They are highly nomadic, depending on rain and flood patterns, and often are ‘here today and gone tomorrow’. In wet seasons, Grey Teal will be widespread on inland river systems and lakes. In drought times, they congregate on coastal wetlands and estuaries.

The Grey Teal is a typical dabbling duck. It feeds on aquatic plant and animal life by upending and ‘dredging’ in shallow waters.

Their nomadic, irruptive patterns result in Grey Teal breeding at almost any time of year. They nest in a wide variety of situations: rabbit burrows; on bare ground; crevices in rocks; tree hollows; etc. If conditions are right, Grey Teal can produce multiple broods per season.

Victoria’s Game Management Authourity says, “The Grey Teal is available for recreational hunting”. Just thought you’d like to know.