Blue-Winged Teal (Anas discors)

Common Name: Blue-Winged Teal

Scientific Name: Anas discors

Date: March 3, 2012

Time: ~8:00 a.m.

Location: Arroyo Simi (between Madera Road and First Street)

Season: Late Winter

Conditions: Mild, clear, and breezy; low 60s

Sex: Both males and females observed

Habitat: Fresh and brackish vegetated wetlands (marshes, ponds, prairie potholes)

Status and Distribution: Common south to northern half of South America. Late spring and early fall migrant. Winters in South America, but some remain in southern states primarily in coastal regions. Population is stable or increasing.

Notes: At least four (4) Blue-Winged Teal were observed (2 male/female pairs), although it is probable that there were six (6) of the species in the arroyo this morning and possibly eight (8). Counting was difficult as the bird kept moving upon my approach.