Cinnamon Teal
Spatula cyanoptera
Name in Spanish
Song
Cinnamon Teal
The Cinnamon Teal (Spatula cyanoptera). Read in Spanish
Appearance: The male Cinnamon Teal (41 cm - 16 in) has a striking plumage. During the breeding season, it exhibits a bright reddish-cinnamon head and neck, a dark maroon chest, and a vibrant blue patch on the wings. The rest of its body is predominantly brown. In contrast, the female has a mottled brown appearance throughout the year, with a pale blue patch on the forewing. Brownish chest. Both sexes have long bills.
Habitat: The Cinnamon Teal occupies a variety of wetland habitats. It can be found in areas with suitable freshwater marshes, lakes, ponds, and flooded fields, particularly in the Andean region (up to 3500 m), Magdalena River basin, Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta, and the eastern plains of the Llanos Orientales.
Behavior: Cinnamon Teals are primarily dabbling ducks, which means they feed by tipping headfirst into the water to reach submerged vegetation and invertebrates. They are known to be highly active during feeding and foraging, often swimming with their heads partially submerged or upending to reach food.
These ducks are generally sociable and tend to gather in small flocks or mixed-species groups.
Breeding: Breeding typically occurs during the wet season, usually between May and October. The Cinnamon teals construct nests in marshes or grassy areas near water bodies often concealed among vegetation or in floating platforms.
The female typically lays around 8-10 eggs, which she incubates for about 25-28 days. Once hatched, the ducklings are precocial, meaning they can swim and feed shortly after hatching.
Conservation Status: the Cinnamon Teal is generally considered a resident species, The partial migrant Horned Screamer is listed as "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List, which means it is not currently considered to be facing a high risk of extinction.
Distribution
The Cinnamon Teal (Spatula cyanoptera) is a species of duck found in various parts of Colombia. Here is some information on its distribution within the country:
- Andean Region: The Cinnamon Teal can be found in the wetlands and freshwater habitats of the Andean region of Colombia. This includes areas such as lakes, marshes, and ponds situated within the Andean valleys and foothills.
- Magdalena River Basin: Similar to other waterfowl species, the Cinnamon Teal occurs in wetland areas along the Magdalena River basin. This river system runs through several regions of Colombia, providing suitable habitat for the species
- Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta: This coastal lagoon, located in the Caribbean region of Colombia, serves as a habitat for the Cinnamon Teal. The species can be observed here, particularly during the wet season.
- Eastern Plains (Llanos): The Cinnamon Teal occurs in the extensive wetlands of the Eastern Plains, also known as the Llanos. These grassy plains with seasonal flooding provide ideal conditions for the species.
It's important to note that the Cinnamon Teal's distribution in Colombia may vary depending on the specific time of year and the bird's migratory patterns. The species is known to undertake some seasonal movements and may be present in different regions during breeding and non-breeding seasons.
To get the most up-to-date and specific information on the Cinnamon Teal's distribution in Colombia, it is recommended to refer to regional bird guides, scientific research literature, or consult with local birding organizations and experts who have detailed knowledge of bird distribution in the country.
Taxonomy
The Cinnamon Teal (Spatula cyanoptera) belongs to the following taxonomic classification:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Anseriformes (Waterfowl)
- Family: Anatidae (Ducks, geese, and swans)
- Genus: Spatula
- Species: Spatula cyanoptera
Please note that the taxonomic classification may be subject to revisions as scientific understanding and research progress, so it's always important to consult the most up-to-date sources for accurate information.
Vocalization
The Cinnamon Teal duck has various vocalizations that it uses for communication. Here are some of the vocalizations associated with this species:
- Quacking Call: The most common vocalization of the Cinnamon Teal is a series of quacking sounds. The quacks are often short and repeated in rapid succession. These calls are used for general communication and can vary in pitch and intensity.
- Whistling Call: The Cinnamon Teal produces a distinctive whistling call, which is often described as a nasal whistle or a high-pitched "squee-eeee." This call is typically used during courtship displays or as a territorial or contact call.
- Whining Call: The ducks occasionally emit a high-pitched, whining call that sounds like a soft, drawn-out "nee-ee" or "wee-ee." This call is often associated with agitation, distress, or alarm.
- Grunting Call: During aggressive encounters or territorial disputes, the Cinnamon Teal may emit a low, grunting call. This call is deep and guttural, often described as a soft "gronk" or "gru-unk."
Vocalizations can vary among individuals and can be influenced by different contexts, such as breeding, courtship, aggression, or alarm. Additionally, vocalizations of ducks can also differ between males and females.
