Western Alaska is huge and largely unpeopled. Vast areas must receive little
birding attention and therefore Baikal Teal and other Asian species can
slip in "under the radar". Ten years ago I surmised Eurasian Wigeons were
breeding in Alaska because more and more were showing up here in Washington.
This has been proven to be the case.
I know absolutely nothing of Baikal Teal breeding habitat needs but it's
not inconceivable that a few pairs could colonize the Yukon/Kuskokwim River
Delta area (it's the size of some small eastern states!) and go unnoticed.
The area produces millions of birds each summer. Even though the Fish &
Wildlife folks survey the deltas a pair or 2 of teal may go unseen.
Steve Ellis
sellis at coup.wednet.edu