Teal
Anas crecca
Length 34-38cm

Britain's smallest duck. Local and rather scarce breeding species, especially in N but widespread winter visitor from September to April. Male (A) has chestnut-orange head with yellow-bordered green patch through eye. Plumage otherwise finely marked grey except for black-bordered yellow stern. Grey-brown female (B) best identified by small size and association with male. Green speculum in both sexes. Favours freshwater marshes and estuaries. Rises almost vertically when alarmed.