Black-bellied Whistling-Duck Similar Species Comparison

Adult (fulgens)

Long-necked duck with a red bill and long pink legs. Its body is mostly chestnut, with a black belly and a gray face. The white patch in the wings appears as a stripe down its wing while at rest.

Adult (fulgens)

In flight shows a large white patch on the upperwings. Flies with large pink feet projecting beyond the tail tip and head and neck head slightly down, imparting a kinked appearance.

Adult

Adult and juvenile (fulgens)

Juveniles are browner than adults and lack the black belly. Note also the black bill and pale legs shown by juveniles.

Adult (autumnalis)

South American adults (subspecies autumnalis) show a wide, pale gray-brown band separating the rich brown neck from the black belly.

Adult

Juvenile (autumnalis)

The long, slender neck, plank-like wings, and long legs projecting beyond the tail make this recognizable as a whistling-duck. Juveniles show a pale brown belly, gray bill, and pale pink legs and feet.

Adult (autumnalis)

The stout bill and slim neck help create the whistling-duck "look." The pink-orange bill, white eyering, and large black belly patch that extends up the flanks combine to rule out other similar species.

Adult and juvenile

Adult and chick

Very young chicks show a highly distinctive black-and-yellow bumblebee pattern with highly contrasting head stripes.

Adult (fulgens)

Nests in large holes or hollows in trees as well as nest boxes. Often perches in trees or on rooftops, sometimes well away from water.

Adult

Adult (fulgens)

These gregarious waterfowl occur in flocks year-round. Frequently seen perching on fence posts or wires, especially near agricultural fields.