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Nigel Key West Indian Whistling Duck
(Slimbridge July 2013)
The West Indian Whistling Duck, also known as the Black Billed Whistling Duck or Cuban Whistling Duck, is a Whistling Duck native to the West Indies.
The West Indian Whistling Duck mostly feeds at night and can often be seen perching in trees.
The West Indian Whistling Duck’s population has declined due to hunting and loss of habitat with more than 50% of wetlands being drained for development. They are currently classed as Vulnerable.
| Hear the West Indian Whistling Duck's Call:- |
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Conservation Status
Size
480mm to 560mm (19" to 22")
Appearance - Male
The male has a Black bill, a pale fore-neck speckled with Brown, light Brown face and dark Brown crown. The back, breast and wings are dark Brown with White edging and the under-parts are White with heavy Black markings. The feet and long legs are Green/Black.
Appearance - Female
The female is similar to the male.
Habitat
Wooded Swamps and Mangroves.
Diet
Vegetation and Royal Palm Fruit.
Breeding Time
June to October.
Nest
Nests are built either in tree hollows or on the ground under dense bushes.
Eggs
Quantity: 4 to 16
Colour: Creamy White.
