Northern Pintail

About This Species

An elegant dabbling duck with a long, pointed tail and slender neck, the Northern Pintail is widespread across North America and known for its graceful appearance.

Fun Facts

• Long-distance migrants: Some travel over 3,000 miles between breeding and wintering grounds.
• Tail feathers: Males have distinctive long central tail feathers that can reach 10 inches.
• Early breeders: Among the first ducks to nest in spring, sometimes starting when ice still covers parts of wetlands.
• Versatile feeders: Can feed in shallower water than most ducks thanks to their long necks.