The Pintail
Pintail
Anas acuta L male 71, female 56, W 89. Rather scarce as a breeding bird, mainly on upland pools, lowland marshes and lagoons. In winter on sheltered estuaries, floodlands and nearby lakes. Long-necked, generally slim build, 'greyhound-like'. Characteristic white rear edge to the brown speculum. Both sexes have grey bill. Male has a long pointed tail in breeding plumage. On spring migration seen mostly in individual pairs. Shy. Upstretched neck of alert male glistens among the aquatic vegetation. His spring call is a short whistle, 'kree', like Teal's but weaker. In autumn often joins flights of Wigeon (with which
commonly associated in winter). RWP
An
excellent pocket reference book for recognising birds
is the Hamlyn Guide to Birds of Britain and Europe,
which is a comprehensive reference guide to Britain
and mainland Europe's plethora of ornithological life.
