Cinnamon Teal - Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, NV

At the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, the Cinnamon Teal is a striking sight in sunlit ponds and quiet marsh edges. Males show deep chestnut plumage, a glossy blue forewing patch, and vivid red eyes that shimmer above the waterline. These dabbling ducks feed by filtering tiny organisms and biofilm through specialized comb-like plates along their bills. This adaptation allows them to extract nourishment from shallow water where algae and small invertebrates thrive. Cinnamon Teal favor calm wetlands with dense vegetation that offers both food and protection from predators. During winter, they gather in small groups, often mixing with Blue-winged Teal and Northern Shovelers. Henderson’s managed ponds have ideal conditions, sustaining year-round bird diversity in Nevada’s desert basin. Patient observers can watch these ducks tip forward to feed or glide smoothly across the water’s reflective surface. Use one of our hand picked guides to lead a walk for birds you have on your list.