Is there a good site to go to for duck identification? I want to find something to help out the kids with.

Thanks,
Wayne

I tried this site. Seemed a bit confusing to the/my boys. Anything a bit simpler?

most of the teal in Texas now a blue winged. Look for the blue flashes on the wings. Watch out because the larger spoonie also have blue on the wings.

The teal flight pattern is pretty distinctive as well.

Its pretty easy for me. I'm trying to find something to help the kids with. I guess maybe some time spent with me in the water will help best. I was hoping for something easy so that they could hunt Teal with me without all the worring.

Call the shots for them.

True that. Guess they will pick up on it pretty quick.

Went out this morning and didnt have much chance to help the boy. We had one group of 7 fly over, but we wasnt in the water yet. Had another pair fly over our back side, but Shawn didnt get the look on them. Other than that, we had several Mallards come close. Guess we'll have to try it again...

I suggest getting the "Le Master Method" book. it's a decent field guide, and easy to study.

http://www.neweggmall.com/Product/2004736360/product.html?cm_mmc=PCE-GoogleSearch-_--_-Reference%20%26%20Textbooks-_-2004736360

texas parks and wildlife has a book on their website called ducks at a distance, i think. give that a try.

Thanks Monkey.


Hey! I remember that book. Animated I think, but still a good resource.

Ed how can you get a teal mixed up with a spoonie???

I don't have that problem, just heard other people do.

As far as identifying drakes from hens the drakes have an iridescent green speculum, there the hens have more of a white strip. I have noticed a coloration difference on the feet between the drakes and hens also.

Maybe I'm misreading what you said, but its the Drake that has the white stripe. The hen is more brown in color, much like the hen Mallard.

Im talking about the speculum, not the head. The drake has the white stripe on his face, but has a green speculum.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Speculum_feathers

and can been seen here
http://www.ducks.org/media/hunting/waterfowlIDGallery/_images/fullSize/bluewingedTeal1.jpg

also notice the bright coloration of that drakes feet, the hens I have shot have been more pale in coloration.

I figured it was just a misunderstanding. My bad.

no prob

Very true. Only way to learn is to get out there.

I figure after a few good hunts, they will get the hang of things. Hell, they might be telling the blind ol man whats what.

Check out this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_2jk27BKbI

There is another one for Green winged teal.

Notice how fast they flap their wings as well.

Good vid. Had the boy sit and watch. We went on a morning hunt this morning and saw a few, but I think we were probably in too deep of water. Couldnt get them in, but it gave him a chance to watch a few fly bye's. I think he is beginning to get the idea.