Among the most handsome of all ducks, the northern pintail (Anas acuta) is recognised by its slender build, long, elegant neck and elongated, spiky central tail feathers, a feature that gives rise to its common name. A graceful waterbird with long, narrow wings, during the breeding season the male northern pintail has a chocolate-brown head, white underparts and a white neck, with a thin, white line extending up the back of the neck, and a long, black tail bordered by yellowish-tan patches.
Facts[]
- Where to see them: Northern areas of Europe, Asia and North America.
- Length: 23 to 25 in
- Weight: 1 to 3 lbs
- Wingspan: 9 to 11 in
- Diet: Aquatic insects, molluscs and crustaceans