Male northern pintails are known for their elegant appearance with a dark brown head, white breast and neck, and a long, pointed central tail feather. Female pintails are more subtly colored, with mottled brown and gray feathers for camouflage. Both sexes have a long, slender neck and bluish-gray bills.

Male Northern Pintail:
• Head: Dark brown, with a white stripe extending up the neck and onto the side of the head.
• Body: White breast and belly, with black and white speckled feathers on the back and sides.
• Tail: Long, pointed central tail feathers, up to 4 inches long, giving the bird its "pintail" name.
• Bill: Bluish-gray.
• Size: 25-29 inches (64-74 cm).

Female Northern Pintail:
• Head and Body: Mottled brown and gray feathers for camouflage.
• Tail: Shorter tail feathers than the male, but still pointed.
• Bill: Bluish-gray with black blotching.
• Size: 21-23 inches (53-58 cm).

Both Sexes:
• Slender body and long neck, which helps them forage in deeper water.
• Bluish-gray bill and feet.
• Known for their pointed tails.