Habitat:
lakes, rivers, marshes

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Spectacled Duck, or Speculanas specularis, is a waterfowl species native to the southern regions of South America, primarily in Chile and Argentina. This duck is characterized by its dark brown plumage with metallic green sheen on the wings and a distinctive white ring around its eyes, giving it its name. It inhabits lakes, rivers, and marshes, often at high altitudes. Although relatively tolerant, it remains cautious around humans. Its population is stable, but it is sensitive to habitat disturbances. The Spectacled Duck is an excellent diver, feeding mainly on aquatic plants and invertebrates.

Recommended lens:
400mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Spectacled Duck, aim for early morning or late afternoon to take advantage of soft lighting. Use a telephoto lens of 400mm or more to capture details without disturbing the bird. Maintain a distance of at least 10 m to avoid scaring it. A tripod can be useful for stabilizing your camera, especially if using slower shutter speeds. Be patient and wait for the duck to move naturally in its habitat to get authentic shots.