There are two species of Whistling-Ducks sometimes found in Arizona - the Black-bellied Whistling Duck and the Fulvous Whistling-Duck. The Black-bellied is much more common than the Fulvous, but both are not seen that often.

Description:  This is a long-necked and long-legged duck about 21” long. The adult has a reddish bill. Another tell-tale mark is its bright white upper wing stripe. By comparison, the Fulvous Whistling-Duck has a slate-colored bill and doesn’t have the white stripe.

Habitat:  They like both fresh and brackish water marshes, ponds, and open woodland. They can be found in large flocks.

Diet:  Feeds mainly on seeds, grain and grasses. Will sometimes eat snails and insects.

Range:  Found mainly in South America, Mexico and Texas, but has expanded its range into SE Arizona and even into Maricopa country. See map below.

Breeding:  They usually make their nests in tree cavities even if the cavity is far from water. It is lined only with rotted wood chips. If necessary, they can also nest on the ground among reeds. They are monogamous and usually have anywhere from 12-18 eggs. They will use nest boxes.