Yellow-billed pintail

Scientific name: Anas georgica

Field notes

Appearance

Slender dabbling duck with distinctive yellow bill. Drake features chocolate-brown head, white breast and neck, grey body; hen is mottled grey-brown. Long pointed tail.

Size and weight

450–650 g; 53–66 cm length. Males average slightly heavier.

Habitat

Shallow freshwater and brackish wetlands, coastal lagoons, and inland lakes with minimal emergent vegetation, throughout temperate South America.

Distribution

South America from Colombia to Tierra del Fuego. Inhabits temperate and subtropical wetlands.

Diet

Grazes on aquatic vegetation, seeds, and small invertebrates; primarily herbivorous with seasonal dietary shifts.

Behaviour

Crepuscular feeder; pairs or small flocks outside breeding season. Graceful swimmer; dabbles and tips-up in shallow water.

Hunting tips

Scout water margins for tracks and droppings in muddy shorelines. Approach into wind, keeping low profile through reed beds and marsh fringes. Focus on dusk and dawn when birds shift between rest and feeding areas.

Whole weight

This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.

Where it is hunted

Listed as huntable in 5 countries in Huntify.

Names in other languages

Current language: en

These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.