A wild hybrid in the genus Anas L. (Anatidae)

Abstract

An adult female with black duck and grey teal affinities, the only one of its type taken amongst 15,500 birds of the two species, is described. Although hybrids within Anatidae have been recorded frequently, most are from birds held in captivity. Zietz ( 1912) refers to wild-living specimens that were presumed hybrids of black duck (Anas superciliosa rogersi Mathews) and grey teal (A. gibberifrons gracilis Buller). On September 25, 1965, an adult female with black duck and grey teal affinities was shot by Mr. C. Ray, at Serpentine Creek, near Woodstock, North Queensland. The specimen, now in the collection of the Department of Primary Industries at the Animal Health Station, Townsville, is described below.