General

Fulvous Whistling-Duck: Large, long-legged, long-necked duck with dark brown back and white V-shaped rump patch. Head and underparts are buff with white throat and vent. White-edged side and flank feathers form a striking border between sides and back. Tail is black with white undertail coverts. Bill, legs, and feet are blue-gray. Sexes are similar. Juvenile resembles adult but is duller overall. Occasionally perches in trees.

Range and Habitat

Fulvous Whistling-Duck: Breeds in southern California, coastal Texas and Louisiana, and southern Florida; winters along the east coast of Mexico. Preferred habitats include shallow freshwater marshes, lakes, and flooded agricultural fields.

Listen to Call

Voice Text

"k-weeoo", "kee"

Interesting Facts

 The Fulvous Whistling-Duck's common name comes from the hoarse whistling sound it makes and from its coloring. Fulvous means tawny.

 They are easily domesticated and are quite tame even in the wild.

 Largely nocturnal, they migrate at night and rest and feed during the day, unlike most other ducks.

 A group of ducks has many collective nouns, including a "brace", "flush", "paddling", "raft", and "team" of ducks.

Author

Gary Owen Dick

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