Green-winged Teal

Anas crecca

Breeds across Alaska, Canada, and the no… Shallow freshwater wetlands, flooded fie… Common Drake’s Display Whistle

Learn to identify the Green-winged Teal by ear. Master the "preep-preep-preep" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“preep-preep-preep”

What the Green-winged Teal sounds like

The Green-winged Teal is North America’s smallest dabbling duck, renowned for its fast, twisting flight and striking emerald wing patches that flash in sunlight. Males in breeding plumage boast a chestnut head bisected by an iridescent green facial stripe, while females wear intricately mottled brown camouflage. Agile and gregarious, these teal often gather in large, tight flocks that explode from marshy cover when disturbed.

“preep-preep-preep”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:Series of three to five clear, high whistles given rapidly as male courts female or when flushed. Often written as “preep-preep-preep”.

Don't confuse with:The Cinnamon Teal — cinnamon teal drake rich reddish body without vertical white breast bar.

Where you'll hear it

Shallow freshwater wetlands, flooded fields, prairie potholes, mudflats, river backwaters, and tidal marshes during migration and winter.

Breeds late May–July; peak migration Aug–Oct southbound and Feb–Apr northbound; winters Nov–Mar.

Similar species

Cinnamon Teal

Cinnamon Teal drake rich reddish body without vertical white breast bar.

Blue-winged Teal

Blue-winged has powder-blue upperwing coverts, not emerald.

Northern Shoveler

Much larger with oversized spoon-shaped bill.

Green-winged Teal sound FAQ

What does a Green-winged Teal sound like?

Series of three to five clear, high whistles given rapidly as male courts female or when flushed. Listen for the "preep-preep-preep" phrase.

How do I tell a Green-winged Teal from a Cinnamon Teal by sound?

Cinnamon Teal: Cinnamon Teal drake rich reddish body without vertical white breast bar.; Female Cinnamon Teal has larger, thicker bill and warmer overall tone.; Green speculum narrower and less bronzy in Cinnamon..

When is the best time to hear a Green-winged Teal?

Breeds late May–July; peak migration Aug–Oct southbound and Feb–Apr northbound; winters Nov–Mar.