General

White-cheeked Pintail: Large, heavily spotted dark and light brown duck with striking white cheek patches, blue bill with bright red base and buff pointed tail. Females are similar but paler. Juveniles are pale brown with faint spotting.

Range and Habitat

White-cheeked Pintail: This species is a native of the Caribbean Islands, South America, and the Galapagos Islands. Within the United States, it is a rare to casual visitor in southern Florida. This bird is found near rivers, lakes, and ponds, as well as along costal marshes and rocky or sandy seashores.

Breeding and Nesting

White-cheeked Pintail: Five to twelve cream or buff eggs are laid in a nest near water made of leaves and concealed in grasses or weeds. Female incubates eggs for 24 to 25 days.

Foraging and Feeding

White-cheeked Pintail: Eats seeds, aquatic plants, and small invertebrates obtained by dabbling.

Vocalization

White-cheeked Pintail: Male has a squeaky call.

Similar Species

White-cheeked Pintail: Northern Pintail female lacks red spot at base of bill and white cheeks.