Auckland teal

An old report of "the same flightless duck" on North East Island, The Snares group[4] most likely refers to a straggler.

The plumage is all over brown with a hint of green on the neck and a conspicuous white eyering.

The wings are very small and the species has, like the related Campbell teal, lost the power of flight.

[5] The Auckland teal is mostly crepuscular to nocturnal, preferring to hide from predators (New Zealand falcons and skuas) during the day.

The species inhabits a variety of habitats with the islands, including tussock fields, mega herb shrubland and coastal waters.

Image of Auckland teal in the collection of Auckland Museum
Auckland teal mount in the collection of Auckland Museum