Blue-winged Teal

Anas discors

Where is the blue on a Blue-winged Teal? You won’t see it unless the bird’s wings are outstretched: a powder-blue spot on each shoulder. Most Blue-winged Teal migrate farther south, into Central America and Northern South America, but a few may be seen in the lagoon in fall and winter, almost always in the company of the Cinnamon Teal.

Fun Fact:
These tiny dabbling ducks migrate a very long distance, and so begin leaving for their spring trip north as early as January.

What’s for Lunch:
Duckweed, seeds, and small aquatic animals

Where’s Home:
The lagoon in winter; nests in Northern U.S. and Canada