Psilos Wildfowl Photography

Marbled Teal

(Marmaronetta angustirostris)
Native to southern Europe, north Africa and the Middle-East this bird differs from other Teal as it does not have any speculum on its wing. It is a very small and quite unassuming duck and because of its browness is often overlooked. This is sad because on closer inspection they really are very pretty. Sexes are alike. This is a rather difficult bird to photograph well.
 
 
 
During April the males begin their courtship displays. The males are then easily recogniseable from the crests that are raised on their heads. This is shown in the photo below.