Every time I'd read a posting or get a message that there was a green-winged teal (Anas crecca) at the Reservoir or elsewhere, I'd go to look for the duck and just miss it. I was firmly convinced I'd never see this duck, that my hopes and dreamed would be dashed again. But I have now been able to see a number of these amazing little birds, and I feel so blessed. They are the smallest dabbling duck.
Female green-winged teal, the Pool, Central Park, December 20, 2021
A female green-winged teal at the Meer, Central Park, Oct. 5, 2016
But finally, after a couple of visits to the Meer in Central Park, I spotted the female green-winged teal I'd been told was there. It was a delight to see the little duck, and to get some photos and video. As you can see from the Cornell Web site, this is a very handsome duck and worth looking for.
In late fall/early winter 2016, a male green-winged teal made an appearance at the Pond, where our Woody showed him the ropes. He was a delight, and I was finally able to film the male teal. These photos of Greenie were shot on December 21, 2016.
Male green-winged teal, the Pond, Central Park, December 21, 2016
Male green-winged teal, December 21, 2016
The Filming the Feathers video featuring Greenie is set to music by Scarlatti, too.
Green-winged teal drake, January 5, 2017
These photos were taken in December 2016 and January 2017, in Central Park.
In April 2017, a pair of green-winged teals visited Turtle Pond in Central Park. I got video of both, but was only able to photograph the male.
I was able to see this female green-winged teal, plus another lady, at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge on October 18, 2017.
These photos of the female green-winged teal were taken Oct. 5, 2016.
Male green-winged teal, Big John Pond, Jamaica Bay Wildilfe Refuge
Female green-winged teal, Big John Pond, JBWR, April 6, 2019