White-cheeked Pintail

This species was first described by Linnaeus in his Systema naturae in 1758 under its current scientific name. There are three races: A. b. bahamensis in the Caribbean, A. b. galapagensis on the Galapagos, and the slightly larger A. b. rubirostris in South America. The latter race may be partially migratory, breeding in Argentina and wintering further north.

Like many southern ducks, the sexes are similar. It is mainly brown with white cheeks and a red-based grey bill (young birds lack the pink). It cannot be confused with any other duck in its range.

This species occurs on waters with a degree of salinity, such as brackish lakes, estuaries and mangrove swamps.

The White-cheeked Pintail feeds on aquatic plants and small creatures obtained by dabbling. The nest is on the ground under vegetation and near water.

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