Eurasian/Green-winged Teal vs Marbled Duck

In short

The Eurasian/Green-winged Teal (Anas crecca) and the Marbled Duck (Marmaronetta angustirostris) can be distinguished by their plumage and habitat preferences. The Green-winged Teal is known for its distinctive green speculum and bold head pattern, while the Marbled Duck lacks a speculum and has a more uniform, marbled appearance. Habitat preferences also differ, with the Green-winged Teal favoring freshwater wetlands and the Marbled Duck often found in brackish wetlands.

Identification tips

1. Look for the green speculum on the Green-winged Teal, absent in the Marbled Duck. 2. Note the bold head pattern of the Green-winged Teal, especially the vertical white stripe on males. 3. Observe the marbled plumage and dark eye patch of the Marbled Duck. 4. Consider habitat: freshwater for Green-winged Teal, brackish for Marbled Duck. 5. Size can be a clue, with the Marbled Duck being slightly larger.

Size

Both species are small ducks, but the Marbled Duck is slightly larger and bulkier than the Green-winged Teal.

Plumage

The Green-winged Teal has a striking green speculum and a bold head pattern with a vertical white stripe on the side of the head in males. The Marbled Duck lacks a speculum and has a more uniform, marbled brown and cream plumage with a distinctive dark eye patch.

Behaviour

The Green-winged Teal is often seen in small flocks and is more active, while the Marbled Duck is gregarious but tends to be more sedentary and non-aggressive.

Habitat

Green-winged Teals prefer freshwater wetlands, while Marbled Ducks are more commonly found in brackish wetlands with well-structured vegetation.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature between these species in the field.