Habitat:
Lakes, marshes, slow-moving rivers

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

Identification and description:
The Cape Teal, Anas capensis, is a small dabbling duck native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is easily identifiable by its bright red bill and pale grey plumage speckled with dark spots. Males and females are similar, though females are slightly smaller. This duck prefers aquatic habitats such as lakes, marshes, and slow-moving rivers. It primarily feeds on aquatic plants, seeds, and insects. Although generally discreet, it can form large flocks outside the breeding season. Its population is stable, but it is sometimes threatened by habitat loss and water pollution.

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

Photography tips:
To photograph the Cape Teal, focus on early morning or late afternoon hours when the light is soft. Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture precise details without disturbing the bird. Be patient and discreet, as this duck can be suspicious. A tripod can be helpful to stabilize your camera, especially if using a slow shutter speed. Try to capture images when the duck is moving or feeding to add dynamism to your photos.