The Northern pintail is a widespread species that occurs both in the USA and Russia as well as in Sweden - and, despite its large distribution, without subspecies. The Northern pintail has decreased sharply in number in many places, especially in the core area of Russia, due to toxins, such as lead, hunting, or various diseases. However, due to its widespread distribution, it is not considered endangered. The Latin 'anas' simply means 'duck' and 'acuta' ('pointed' or 'sharp') refers to the male's pointed tail. This male has just come out of the water after grazing plant parts on the bottom, near the shore.