What Is the Black-Bellied Whistling Duck?

The black-bellied whistling duck is a species of waterfowl that is distinctly different in behavior and appearance than most other types of duck. It has been described by one ornithologist as "un-duck-like" due to certain behaviors, such as monogamous pair-bonding, that more closely resemble that of swans or geese. This bird is also known by its scientific name Dendrocygna autumnalus. In some areas, it is colloquially called the black-bellied tree duck or whistling duck.

Female and male specimens of the black-bellied whistling duck are difficult to tell apart, as both sexes have pink legs, a patch of white on the wing, and a red bill. Their heads are gray, with a black tail and belly. Rich brown plumage covers the neck, head, and body, and the eyes feature a noticeable ring of white. The wide patch of white on the wings is more evident when the bird is flying than when it is at rest. This duck has a neck and legs that are unusually long compared to most ducks.

The black-bellied whistling duck can be found in breeding areas year-round in south Texas, as well as seasonally in parts of Arizona, Louisiana, and South America. This bird has also been spotted in parts of South Carolina, Florida, Georgia, and Arkansas. Only the most northern populations of black-bellied whistling duck are known to migrate in winter. The species is found in elevations ranging from sea level up to more than 4,900 feet (1.5 km).

These whistling ducks are approximately 19-21 inches (48-53 cm) in length and weigh up to 36 ounces (1,020 g), with a wingspan of about 37 inches (93.9 cm). The black-bellied whistling duck typically lives up to eight years in the wild. Its whistling vocalizations are variously described as "pe-che-che-ne," "waa-choo," or "pi-yih-pyi-pyi."

This unusual waterfowl lives near shallow water sources such as lakes, marshes, and ponds. The black-bellied whistling duck prefers water locations lined with woods because of its habit of perching or nesting in trees. It is sometimes also seen on grassy swaths of land, such as golf courses.

These omnivorous birds eat seeds, grasses, insects, and small invertebrates. They generally feed at night, sometimes in large flocks of hundreds at a time. These ducks also eat rice or corn crops, if available. In some Spanish-speaking areas, the black-bellied whistling duck might alternately be known as pato maizal or "cornfield duck" because of its preference for dining on corn crops.

The Black-bellied Whistling Duck is notable for its bright pink bill and legs, contrasting with its rich brown plumage and black belly. Its white wing patches become visible in flight, adding to its striking appearance. This species exhibits a unique profile with a long neck and upright stance, resembling both a duck and a goose.

Black-bellied Whistling Ducks are commonly found in the southern United States, Mexico, Central America, and South America. They prefer warm, wetland habitats such as freshwater lakes, marshes, and ponds. These ducks are also known to frequent agricultural fields and urban areas where water bodies are present.

The diet of the Black-bellied Whistling Duck primarily includes plant matter such as seeds, grains, and fruits. They are also known to eat insects, snails, and other small invertebrates. Their foraging behavior often leads them to agricultural fields where they feed on crops like rice and corn.

During breeding season, Black-bellied Whistling Ducks form monogamous pairs and often nest in tree cavities or on platforms near water. They may also use nest boxes if available. Both parents share incubation duties and care for the young, which are precocial and able to leave the nest shortly after hatching.

Black-bellied Whistling Ducks are considered partial migrants. While some populations remain in the same area year-round, others may migrate short distances in response to water availability and food resources. Migration patterns can vary widely among different populations, with some moving only locally and others traveling more extensively.

The Black-bellied Whistling Duck is currently listed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This status reflects the species' wide distribution and large, stable population numbers. However, habitat loss and degradation remain threats that could impact certain populations, emphasizing the need for ongoing conservation efforts.