Cape Teal
The Cape Teal is another common aviary bird that is relatively easy to keep and breed.
They are native to Africa and would prefer warm climates, but many are kept in northern collections with minimal trouble.
They are not aggressive and get along well with other species making them suitable for mixed collections.
The male and female look similar, with the drakes being larger and having a slightly brighter colored bill. Like most tropical ducks the male does not undergo and eclipse period and keeps his breeding colors year round.
Cape Teal enjoy a long breeding season, I have collected eggs as early as January and as late as July.
Birds are first year fertile but most do not lay until their second Spring.
Nests are made on the ground in thick vegetation or in a nesting box.
Clutches consist of 6-10 eggs and are incubated for about 25 days.
The ducklings present no special challenges and are easy to raise.
