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Nigel Key White-Backed Duck
(Slimbridge July 2012)
The White-Backed Duck is closely related to the Whistling Ducks and also shows similarities to the stiff-tailed ducks.
The White-Backed Duck is native to South Africa and is extremely well adapted for diving and is able to stay submerged for up to 1 minute.
The White-Backed Duck is one of the waterfowl to which the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds applies.
Conservation Status
Size
380mm to 400mm (15" to 16")
Appearance - Male
The male has a Buff neck and cheeks merging into a speckled dark crown and nape. The eyes are Brown, the bill is Black with Yellow blotches and a White patch either side of its base. The breast and under-parts are Buff with barring and the upper-parts and flanks are Buff with broader barring. The lower back is White, the rump and tail are Black, the flight feathers are light Brown and the coverts are dark Brown with Buff and White markings. The legs and feet are Green/Grey.
Appearance - Female
The female is similar to the male.
Habitat
Lakes, Ponds, Swamps and Marshes.
Diet
Aquatic Plants, Seeds and Insect Larvae.
Breeding Time
Various.
Nest
The nest is built from vegetation amongst reed or papyrus beds or built in concealed vegetation on the ground close to water.
Eggs
Quantity: 5 to 8
Colour: Chocolate Brown.
African Pygmy Goose
