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Nigel Key South African Comb Duck
(Slimbridge June 2015)
The Comb Duck, or Knob Billed Duck, is pan-tropic found in the tropical wetlands of Africa, Madagascar, South Asia and in South America.
The Comb duck is currently classed as least concern, however, its numbers are in decline due to habitat loss and hunting.
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Conservation Status
Size
560mm to 760mm (22" to 30")
Appearance - Male
The male has a White dark spot freckled head, White neck and underparts. The upperparts are Blue Black with a Blue Green iridescence prominent on the secondary feathers. The bill is Grey Black with a large Black ‘Knob’ from which it gets its common name.
Appearance - Female
The female is similar to the males except it lacks the Knob on the bill and is slightly smaller and duller.
Habitat
Wooded Lakes, Freshwater Swamps and Tropical Wetlands.
Diet
Grazes on Grass, Aquatic Vegetation, Seeds, Sedges, Aquatic Insects, Invertebrates and small Fish.
Breeding Time
They breed during and after the rainy season and may not breed at all in times of scanty rain or drought.
Nest
Nests in Tree cavities or in tall grass near to water.
Eggs
Quantity: 7 to 15
Colour: Yellow/White.
