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Order: Anseriformes Family: Anatidae Chick Type: Precocial (Parental attendance) Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks are found in southern Oklahoma, Texas and southeastern Arizonia. This species is increasing its range northward. They were once only found in south Texas, but now can be seen in central and east Texas year round. This genus is only represented by two species, the other being the Fulvous Whistling-Duck. Diet consists of a broad range of plant matter, insects and other aquatic invertbrates are also taken. Unlike most ducks, this species often feeds at night. Nests are built on the ground or in tree cavities. Manmade nest boxes are used as well. Clutch size is usually around 9 - 18 white colored eggs. Incubation time is 26 - 31 days. This species have been observed parasitizing the nest of other birds. Whistling Ducks resemble and behave more like geese than ducks. They have longer legs and more upright posture than ducks. Both parents play an active role in care of offspring, which is typical of geese. This species used to be called the Black-bellied Tree-duck because of their habit of perching on trees. They can easily be identified from a distance during flight by their white wing patch. |
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