General Description: Gadwalls (Anas strepera) are sexually dimorphic pond ducks. Males are gray ducks with a black rear. With the wings open, a bit of white can be seen on the trailing edge of the wing near the body. From a distance and with wings folded, we see only gray sides and dark rump with no white at the shoulder or tail.
Females are nondescript mottled brown similar to female mallards, but with a darker bill and the wing patch is all white. In both genders, the head is lighter colored than the body.
Taxonomy: Anseriformes, Anatidae, Anatinae
Favored Habitat: Ponds and marshes.
Where to Find: Neighborhood ponds, parks (e.g., Lorenzi Park and Sunset Park), and the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve. To find them in more natural habitat, visit the Pahranagat Valley or the Overton Wildlife Management Area.
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