Gadwall (Anas strepera), a species of duck, not quite so large as the mallard, a rare visitant of Britain, but abundant in many parts of the continent of Europe, and equally so in Asia and in
North America. Being a bird of passage, it occurs also in tropical regions—e.g. the north of Africa.
It breeds in marshes, and lays from seven to nine eggs. Its voice is loud and harsh. It is much esteemed for the table, and is common in the London market, being imported chiefly from Holland.