The Black-bellied Whistling-duck is the only duck I have ever seen that will land on a power cable. Power cables are used by sparrows, starlings, doves and many other little birds, but it is not usually a place where you will find a flock of ducks.
The Black-bellied Whistling-duck
The Black-bellied Whistling-duck is a pretty, multicoloured bird. They qualify for the best-dressed-duck contest with their bright orange bill, long pink legs and feet, black belly, black and white wings, and prominent white eye-ring.
Do they really whistle?
They do. However, it sounds more like a squeak than a whistle to me. It reminds me of the squeaky bathtub ducks that children play with. Click on the triangle below to listen to their call.
The Facts
- They range from Texas, Arizona and Florida south to northern Argentina.
- They nest in tree cavities or nest boxes.
- They often perch in trees or on power cables.
- They are dabbling ducks that eat plants in shallow water.
- Males and females look alike, which is unusual for ducks.