Eurasian/Green-winged Teal vs Common Pochard

In short

The Eurasian/Green-winged Teal is a small dabbling duck with a distinctive green speculum, while the Common Pochard is a medium-sized diving duck with a striking red head and gray body. The teal is more likely to be seen dabbling in shallow waters, whereas the pochard is often found diving in deeper lakes and reservoirs.

Identification tips

1. Look for the green speculum and chestnut head with a green stripe on male teals. 2. Note the red head and gray body of male pochards. 3. Observe behavior: teals dabble, pochards dive. 4. Consider habitat: teals in shallow waters, pochards in deeper lakes. 5. Listen for the teal's high-pitched whistle.

Size

The Eurasian/Green-winged Teal is smaller and more compact than the Common Pochard, which is medium-sized and bulkier.

Plumage

Male Eurasian/Green-winged Teals have a chestnut head with a broad green stripe, while male Common Pochards have a bright red head and a gray body. Female teals are mottled brown with a less distinct head pattern, whereas female pochards are brown with a less vivid head color.

Behaviour

Eurasian/Green-winged Teals are dabblers, often seen tipping forward in shallow water to feed. Common Pochards are divers, frequently submerging completely to forage.

Habitat

Eurasian/Green-winged Teals prefer shallow wetlands, marshes, and estuaries. Common Pochards are typically found on larger, deeper lakes and reservoirs.

Voice

The Eurasian/Green-winged Teal has a soft, high-pitched whistle, while the Common Pochard's call is less distinctive and not often heard.