In News:

A flock of Northern Pintail ducks was recently sighted at an unprecedented altitude of 13,500 feet in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh—far above their typical wintering habitats. This rare event has sparked interest in their migration behavior and adaptability to high altitudes.

About Northern Pintail Duck

• Scientific Name:Anas acuta
• Type: Migratory waterfowl known for elegance and long-range migration
• Common Nickname: Northern nomads

Distribution & Migration

• Found across every continent except Antarctica
• Breed in northern regions of Europe, Asia, and North America
• Migrate southward in winter to regions including the Indian subcontinent
• Typically observed in low-lying wetlands; rarely at high altitudes
• Do not breed or reside south of the equator

• Seen in the high-altitude region of Arunachal Pradesh during winter, raising questions about changing migration patterns and climate adaptability

Key Features

• Size: Around 60 cm in length, over 1 kg in weight
• Wingspan: Up to 91 cm
• Speed: Capable of flying at 48 miles per hour due to aerodynamic build
• Male Appearance: Buff-gray body, chocolate-brown head, broad white stripe on chest, black back patterns
• Female Appearance: Mottled brown body, lighter chest and neck

Conservation Status

• Listed as “Least Concern” under the IUCN Red List
• Despite being widespread, their migratory nature warrants regular monitoring to track habitat changes and population health