Dec. 19, 2025: The male Green-winged Teal shows a brownish head with muted green ear patch, barred gray sides, and a white side stripe

In December on Cape Cod, the male Green-winged Teal is a compact, finely patterned duck that may appear slightly muted as he transitions out of full breeding plumage, yet still retains distinctive elegance. The head is typically chestnut brown, often still marked by a sleek, iridescent green patch sweeping back from the eye toward the nape, glowing subtly when caught by low winter light. His body is softly gray with delicate vermiculated patterning along the flanks and back, and a clean vertical white stripe usually stands out at the front of the folded wing. The wings reveal a rich green speculum, most noticeable in flight, while the undertail shows pale buff or yellowish tones. Overall, he presents a refined, understated beauty well suited to the quiet salt marshes and sheltered waters of Cape Cod in winter.