Pintail

Description:

The pintail, known scientifically as Anas acuta, is a beautiful and slender duck found in Ireland. It is recognizable by its long and pointed tail feathers, giving it a distinct appearance. The male pintail has a striking grayish-blue head and neck, while its chest and underparts are white. The female pintail, on the other hand, is light-brown with a gray head.

What they eat:

Pintails are omnivorous birds, and their diet includes aquatic plants, small invertebrates, and insects. During breeding season, they consume a lot of protein-rich food to help them produce eggs and support the growth of their hatchlings.

Habitat:

Pintails prefer to live in freshwater marshes, ponds, rivers, and wetlands. These birds spend most of their time in the water, except during nesting, mating, and feeding.

Size and wingspan:

Pintails are medium-sized ducks, with an average length of 51 cm and wingspan of 86 cm. Unlike other ducks, the pintail has a slender body with long, slender wings built for speed and agility.

Male-female difference:

The male and female pintails have distinct differences in appearance. The male is larger and more colorful than the female, with a blue-gray head and neck and a long, pointed tail.

Where to find:

Pintails are migratory birds found in several regions of Ireland, including the east coast, the Shannon Estuary, and the Wexford Slobs. During the breeding season, they are found in the northern and western parts of the country.

What months can be found in Ireland:

Pintails usually arrive in Ireland from their wintering grounds in Europe and Asia in late autumn. They breed in the country from April to June and then leave for their wintering grounds in September.

Interesting note:

Pintails are incredible fliers and can fly at speeds of up to 80 km/h. They are among the earliest waterfowl species to arrive in Ireland each autumn, usually in September. These birds are an essential part of Ireland's wetland ecosystems and are a joy to watch for both birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.