Image via Macaulay Library
Garganey
- Scientific name
- Spatula querquedula
- Family
- Anatidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Wetland marsh
- Wing shape
- Broad
- Tail shape
- Pointed
Where it came from
The Garganey, scientifically classified as Spatula querquedula, is a small dabbling duck that belongs to the broader Anatidae family. Unlike many of its northern-breeding relatives, the Garganey is a migratory species that exhibits a distinct breeding pattern, typically nesting in temperate Eurasia and migrating long distances to spend the non-breeding season in sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and parts of Australia. Its presence in specific regions has historically served as an indicator for ornithologists regarding shifting environmental conditions and wetland health across the Afro-Palearctic flyway.
The species is characterized by its distinctively broad wings, which facilitate its long-distance seasonal migrations, and its uniquely pointed tail shape. The male of the species is easily identified during the breeding season by a conspicuous white crescent-shaped eye stripe that contrasts against a dark head, a design feature that serves as a vital marker for sexual signaling and species identification. First formally described by Carl Linnaeus in his 1758 Systema Naturae, the Garganey has been a subject of focus for naturalists documenting the intricacies of avian evolution and the physiological adaptations necessary for surviving across varied global climates.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Garganey
Garganey is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Garganey on collecto.rs?
Garganey doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Garganey?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Garganey catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Garganey is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
