Northern Pintail

Above: Male.
Below: Female

The Northern Pintail is a duck that can be found in some areas in summer and winter. However, it is a very localised breeder in summer and although more numerous in winter, is by no means widespread. It is found on both fresh water pools and lakes, as well as river estuaries.

The adult male is a particularly handsome creature. He sports a chocolate brown head with a white breast and neck with a narrowing stripe of white from the neck up to the back of the crown. The back is mottled white and pale grey with drooping black/white scapulars. The mottled grey/white of the back extends down to the flanks but the belly and breast are white. there is a yellowish patch close to the vent and the vent itself is jet black. Legs are grey and quite short, whilst the beak is a metalic blue grey almost like gunmetal. The long central tail feathers give the bird it's name.

The female is heavily mottled brown, as are many female ducks. She can be identified by her shape, being low to the water at the base of the neck and, although not as long as the males, she too has a pointed tail.

Luckily these birds can be found all over the north west in winter. Woolston Eyes being a popular place (although not great for photography), Martin Mere, Lancs (who also have a few captive specimens) and Marshside, near Southport. These are all places where I have seen these ducks regularly in winter.

For photography, Martin Mere is good, especially if you want to practice on the captive birds. however, I've found Nell's Hide at Marshside to be by far the best place. When the water level is high enough, which it usually is in winter, these birds can approach fairly close to the hide offering good views and good photo opportunities. Don't forget Nell's Hide faces east, so on bright days try to go in the late afternoon.