Hello everyone! This time, let’s talk about the Northern Pintail, a bird that appears in the skies of Japan with the arrival of winter.
As its name suggests, this duck is characterized by its “long tail.” The males are 61-75 cm in body length, while the females are 51-57 cm. They have a sleek body shape with a long neck and tail feathers. Particularly in males, the central tail feathers can extend up to about 10 cm. The males are colorful with a black-brown head and a white chest and abdomen. The females are primarily brown with a beautiful speckled pattern all over.
The Northern Pintail breeds in the cold regions of Eurasia and northern North America and migrates to warmer areas in winter. What is astonishing is the migration route of these birds. The same individual may spend winters in Japan or North America depending on the year. In their wintering grounds, they form flocks in lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. In Japan, they are often seen flocking around swans.
Their diet is omnivorous, consisting of seeds, aquatic plants, and shellfish. Interestingly, they tend to rest during the day and become active at night. However, in areas where they are fed by humans, they may also be active during the day. Their calls are distinctive, with males making various “piro, piro” sounds, while females sound like Mallards with a “ga-ga” call.
The long-distance migratory lifestyle and the various expressions they show in their daily life are fascinating. Look for them in the winter sky; you are sure to encounter moments that make you forget the cold of winter. See you next time!
