British Waterfowl Association

Puna Teal

Puna Teal
Puna Teal — Pinola Conservancy
Puna Teal and duckling
Puna Teal and duckling — Pinola Conservancy

This species has a very large range and population size, so the IUCN Red List status of the Puna Teal is currently Least Concern.

Spatula puna

Puna Teal was once considered conspecific with its smaller cousin, the Silver Teal Spatula versicolor. The Puna is a common resident of high-altitude Andean lakes, found from Peru and Bolivia south to northern Chile. Though the plumage is similar to that of the Silver Teal, the Puna is a considerably bigger bird with a distinctive all-blue bill. In addition, the flanks are finely, not broadly, barred, and the crown and hind neck blacker. The females of the two species are similar, but the Puna’s larger size and blue beak are diagnostic.

Puna Teal duckling
Puna Teal duckling — Pinola Conservancy
Puna Teal in box
Puna Teal accept artificial nest boxes — Phoebe Vaughan

Because of the lack of an eclipse plumage and the fact that there is little sexual dimorphism – both sexes are bright and attractive – these ducks have long been popular in captivity, where they are well established. Their hardiness reflects the altitude they occur in the wild (up to 10,000ft). They do well in mixed collections, but do not like competition from other ducks, and need clean, good-quality water to thrive.

Puna Teal
Puna Teal — Ian Gereg

Ring Size

9mm

This size is only a guide. Please read more about ringing here.

Early nesters, Puna Teal lay small clutches of four or five eggs; they generally use natural cover, but will nest in suitable boxes. The fluffy grey ducklings hatch after 25 days.

FURTHER READING

BirdLife International (2021). Species factsheet: Spatula puna