Gadwall

Gray body with fine black patterns.

Scientific name	Anas strepera
English name	Gadwall
Japanese name	丘葦鴨
Classification	Aves
Classification details	Anseriformes Anatidae
Full length	50cm
Distribution	Breeds in northern Eurasia. Comes to Japan as a winter bird.

Characteristics

The male has a grey body with fine black patterns. Even in eclipse, the color is not flashy. The head is slightly brown and the beak is leaden.

The female is brown all over and has a yellow beak. It looks similar to female mallards, but can be distinguished by the wing speculum.

Both males and females have white wing speculum.

Ecology

They fly to rivers and lakes as winter birds. They live in small flocks and forage while swimming.

They seem to be more cautious than the Eastern Spot-billed Duck.

Habitat

Tama River midstream, Kamikawahara Dam

In winter, they fly to the pools of the Kamikawahara Dam. They form small groups and forage. They are very cautious and will fly away if you get too close and head upstream or downstream. They are often seen at Shukugawara Weir.