Fulvous Whistling Duck

The Fulvous Whistling Duck, or Fulvous Tree Duck (Dendrocygna bicolor), is a medium-sized, long-legged member of the waterfowl family Anatidae. It is characterized by its rich buff head, neck, and breast, with a darker back and mantle. The species exhibits a striking white band across its black tail when in flight, and possesses a long grey bill and grey legs.

Identification Tips

Adults measure between 45–53 cm in length, with a wingspan of 85 to 93 cm. Males weigh between 748–1,050 g, while females are slightly lighter. The plumage is mainly reddish-brown, with a dark stripe running down the back of the neck. In flight, the lack of white markings on the wings and the white crescent on the rump are distinctive. The call is a clear whistling kee-wee-ooo, often heard at night.

Habitat

The Fulvous Whistling Duck favors wetlands with abundant vegetation, such as shallow lakes and paddy fields. It avoids wooded areas and is typically found in lowland marshes and swamps.

Distribution

This species has a vast range, breeding across tropical regions in Mexico, South America, the West Indies, the southern United States, sub-Saharan Africa, and the Indian subcontinent. It is known for seasonal movements in response to water and food availability.

Behaviour

Often found in small groups, these ducks can form large flocks in preferred habitats. They are adept walkers and feed by upending or occasionally diving. They are not habitual tree perchers and fly at low altitudes in loose flocks. They are vocal and display aggression through head movements.

Song & Calls

The Fulvous Whistling Duck is known for its distinctive whistling call, a kee-wee-ooo, which can be heard both in flight and on the ground. A harsh repeated kee is also heard during disputes.

Breeding

Breeding coincides with water availability, with lifelong monogamous pairs. The nest is built on the ground or in tree holes, with a typical clutch of around ten whitish eggs. Incubation is shared by both parents, and ducklings hatch in 24–29 days, leaving the nest shortly after.

Similar Species

The Lesser Whistling Duck is similar but smaller, with a blackish crown and no dark neck stripe. Juvenile Comb Ducks are bulkier and have a dark cap on the head.

Diet and Feeding

The diet consists mainly of plant material, including seeds and stems. During breeding, females may consume more animal matter. They forage by walking, swimming, upending, or occasionally diving.

Conservation Status

The Fulvous Whistling Duck is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with an estimated population of 1.3 to 1.5 million individuals globally. Despite declines in some areas, the species' large numbers and extensive range contribute to its status. It is subject to hunting and habitat loss in some regions but has shown strong colonizing tendencies, expanding its range in recent decades.