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Nigel Key Wandering Whistling Duck
(Slimbridge March 2012)
The Wandering Whistling Duck, formerly known as the Tree Duck, inhabit Australia, the Philippines, Borneo, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Islands.
They have long necks and legs and have the appearance of a cross between a goose and a duck.
The Whistling Duck is so named due to its call which is a loud whistling sound and also due to the whistling sound their wings make during flight.
| Hear the Wandering Whistling Duck's Call:- |
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Conservation Status
Size
540mm to 600mm (21" to 23")
Appearance - Male
The male has a Dark Brown crown and nape, a Buff colour head with lighter chin and a Black bill merging with the crown. The breast is Light Brown with Black spotting, the under-parts are chestnut Brown with a White undertail and White extending from the rump into the elongated flank plumes. The back is Dark Brown with Chestnut Brown scalloping. The legs and feet are Dark Grey.
Appearance - Female
The female is similar to the male.
Habitat
Flooded Grasslands, Irrigated Land, Deep Lagoons, Swamps, Pastures and Rice Fields.
Diet
Aquatic Vegetation, Seeds, Grasses and small Aquatic Vertebrae and Insects.
Breeding Time
January to April.
Nest
The nest is built in concealing vegetation not far from the water.
Eggs
Quantity: 6 to 15
Colour: Creamy White.
Australian Black Duck
