Blue-winged Teal

Description:

Female Blue-winged Teal was attacked by a small alligator at Sweetwater Wetlands Park, Gainesville, FL. There was a big splash (alligator) and it just stayed there for a few seconds and submerged with the Teal. A few seconds later the scene was mobbed by about 3 Blue-winged Teals, Common Gallinules, Grackles, Red-winged Blackbirds, and an adorable Marsh Wren.

Habitat:

Shallow marshy ponds and lakes with vegetation.

Notes:

Blue-winged Teal usually spend the winter months in the south near FL and GA. I've noticed the numbers dwindling as the weather warms up and they seek cooler breeding grounds in the North.