Gadwall

Gadwall photographed in Manitoba

Gadwalls are the quiet gentlemen of the duck world. The drake is a subtle bird, a fine pattern of grey, a black rear end, and a small white patch on the wing that shows when he flies. At first glance he can look plain, but a close look reveals delicate patterns on the feathers.

They are dabbling ducks, feeding on submerged plants in shallow prairie wetlands, and they are known for taking food that diving ducks and coots have brought up. Gadwalls nest later than most ducks, hiding their nests in dense grass, and they are common across the prairie potholes of southern Manitoba in summer.

I appreciate the subtle beauty of a gadwall, with its fine grey patterning and the small white patch on the wing.

For more on the gadwall and its habitat, see its species guide at All About Birds.

Field notes in photographs

  • Gadwall photographed in Manitoba
  • Male gadwall in flight with chestnut shoulder patch, white wing patch, and orange legs against a blue sky, Manitoba
  • Gadwall photographed in Manitoba, 3
  • Male gadwall swimming, Manitoba

Gadwall Manitoba sightings

Where and when you can find the gadwall in Manitoba depends on the season and the habitat. You can see more species in the Manitoba birds section.

Map of Manitoba showing where the gadwall nests, with major cities and lakes
Where to look for the gadwall in Manitoba through the seasons: nesting in the Boreal Plains and the Prairies (gold). Habitat regions: National Ecological Framework for Canada. Boundaries: Statistics Canada. Lakes: Natural Earth.

Back to Manitoba bird photography, or see the portfolio.

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