The Eurasian teal is the UK's smallest dabbling duck. Declining wetland habitats and disturbance at key wintering sites present growing welfare challenges for this migratory species.
Teal welfare is closely tied to the availability of undisturbed, productive shallow wetlands. Repeated disturbance at roost sites forces birds into energetically costly repeated flight responses, compromising body condition during winter when energy reserves are critical. Habitat loss concentrates birds into fewer sites, increasing competition for food and exposure to disturbance. Protecting and restoring shallow wetland habitat is the most effective welfare intervention.