Northern Pintail Duck

Northern Pintail Duck Latest News

A flock of rare northern pintail ducks has been recently spotted at an unprecedented altitude of 13,500 feet in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh.

About Northern Pintail Duck

• It is a graceful, migratory waterfowl celebrated for its striking appearance and fascinating behavior. 
• Scientific Name: Anas acuta

Northern Pintail Duck Distribution

• Sometimes referred to as the northern nomads, northern pintails have extensive migratory routes. 
• They have been found on every continent except Antarctica but typically do not live or breed south of the equator.

Northern Pintail Duck Features 

• They are named for their long central tail feathers ending in what appears to be a point. 
• The male is a buff-gray color with a chocolate-covered head, a wide white strip on his chest and black patterning on his back. 
• Females and non-breeding males are mottled brown with a light chest, and neck.
• These large ducks can reach over 60 centimeters long and weigh over one kilogram.
• Their wingspan spreads up to 91 centimeters.
• Their aerodynamic build makes them fast flyers, capable of reaching speeds up to 48 mph.
• In the wild, northern pintails can live up to 22 years old.
• Conservation Status: 'Least Concern’ under the IUCN Red List. 

Northern Pintail Duck FAQs

Q1. Is pintail duck a migratory bird in India?

Ans. Yes, the Northern Pintail (Anas acuta) is a migratory bird in India.

Q2. What is the lifespan of northern pintail?

Ans. Pintails can live as long as 22 years in the wild.

Q3. What is the rarest duck in the world?

Ans. The Madagascar Pochard (Aythya innotata) is considered the rarest duck in the world.

Source: NEN