Black-bellied Whistling-Duck

The Black-bellied Whistling-Duck is a gooselike, long-legged duck of the southern United States through Central and South America, notable for perching and nesting in trees, an unusual habit among ducks that has earned members of its genus the nickname "tree ducks." Its upright posture and vivid plumage make it one of the more distinctive waterfowl species to encounter.

Breast and back feathers are rich chestnut-brown, while the belly feathers are solid black—an uncommon and diagnostic combination among ducks, since most species show barred, spotted, or pale bellies rather than solid black. The upperwing carries a bold white patch or stripe sharply bordered in black, prominent both in flight and on individual covert feathers. The face is pale gray, and the bill and long legs are bright pink.

Sexes look alike. Juveniles are duller and grayer overall, with a less defined black belly and grayish rather than pink bill and legs, gradually acquiring adult coloration.

Resident and partially migratory from the southern United States through Mexico, Central America, and much of South America. Favors freshwater ponds, marshes, and agricultural wetlands, and commonly perches or roosts in trees near water.

Feeds by grazing on seeds, grain, and aquatic vegetation, often foraging on land as well as in water. Nests in tree cavities or nest boxes, unusual among ducks, and both sexes share incubation duties. Highly gregarious and vocal, giving a distinctive whistling call, especially active at dusk and during nighttime movements between roosting and feeding sites.