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Nigel Key Spot-Billed Duck
(Slimbridge March 2014)
The Spot-Billed Duck, also known as spot bill, is a dabbling duck from Eastern Asia.
There are three sub-species, the Indian Spot-Billed Duck, the Chinese Spot-Billed Duck and the Burmese Spot-Billed Duck.
The Indian Spot-Billed Duck is identifable by a Red spot at the base of its bill.
| Hear the Spot-Billed Duck's Call:- |
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Conservation Status
Size
550mm to 630mm (22" to 25")
Appearance - Male
The male has a pale Grey neck, pale Grey head with a darker crown and a Black bill with a bright Yellow tip.
The breast and underparts are Whitish with Brownspots, the rump and tail are dark Brown. The wings are almost White with Black flight feathers below and a White-bordered Blue speculum with White tertials above.
The Indian Spot Billed Duck is similar to the Chinese Spot Billed Duck except it is slightly lighter and has a distinguishing Red spot at the base of the bill and a Green speculum.
Appearance - Female
The female is similar to the male except darker.
Habitat
Wetlands, Freshwater Lakes, Marshes in open country.
Diet
Aquatic Plants and Insects, Larvae, Molluscs and Worms.
Breeding Time
July to October and November to December.
Nest
Builds its nest on the ground near water.
Eggs
Quantity: 8 to 14
Colour: White.
Baer's Pochard
