ebirdBlue-billed Teal (Spatula hottentota) – This small duck with a delicately blue bill brings a peaceful and refined atmosphere to the ornithological garden of the Au Bois Vert hotel in Ivato, near Antananarivo International Airport!
What does it look like?
This dabbling duck measures about 36 cm, with light brown plumage, an iridescent green speculum, and a distinctive elegant blue-gray bill. Males and females have similar colors, with males being slightly more vivid.
Its song or cry
The teal produces a dry ke-ke-ke sound when alarmed or taking flight, while the male emits a metallic clicking during courtship, and the female a soft little yelp.
An anecdote or fun fact
It is also nicknamed the Hottentot Teal or Spotted Teal. Despite its somewhat surprising name, this small teal performs its courtship display with an elegant “burp,” like a tiny engine running in the water.
Where and when to see it in our garden?
The Blue-billed Teal can be easily observed at the edge of the small pond, early in the morning or at dusk, especially during the rainy season (November–December), when it nests and displays its brightest plumage.
Why does he love our garden?
It loves shallow water areas with dense vegetation. The Au Bois Vert ornithological garden, with its abundant aquatic plants, hotel, and lodge, provides exactly what it needs to feed, nest, and feel safe.
Tips for observing it
Equip yourself with binoculars and settle at a respectful distance of about 10 meters. The best times to observe it are early in the morning or late in the day, when calm prevails.
