Updated July 2001 since15th April 98
Ringed Teal
visitor no
Updated July 2001
since15th April 98
Ringed Teal
Callonetta Leucophrys
tree or perching ornamental waterfowl
This small teal from central South America is very popular with enthusiasts new to aviculture as it only requires a small aviary or pen with a little pond. They are pretty and easily tamed. The Ringed Teal are probably the cheapest of the smaller ducks to purchase.
The male and female remain colourful throughout the year, no eclipse plumage, The drake having a rich chestnut back, pale grey flanks and a salmon coloured breast speckled in black. A black band runs from the top of it`s head down to it`s nape. She has an olive brownish back with the head blotched and striated in white, with pencilled barring on a pale chest and belly also a dark tail, contrasting pale rump with a distinctive white patch on the wing. Both sexes have grey bills and pink legs/feet. Pairs easily bond. Their contact calls - she has a cat like `mee-oowing` he a lingering `peewoo`. They breed readily in raised boxes making devoted parents.
Feeding - Ringed Teal will feed on free-range chicken or waterfowl layers pellets, cut maize, wheat and pond weed. Live food such as earthworms will also be taken, mealworms being a particular favourite. They have also been known to eat small frogs.
palmiped - a web footed bird
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