Fulvous Whistling Ducks

Fulvous Whistling-Ducks 
A PAIR is a male/female pair of unrelated birds.

• Breeding season May-August
• Clutch Size 12-15 Eggs
• Incubation period 24-28 days
• 1.25 pounds average 

These ducks are found in tropical regions around the globe. Some do migrate; for example, Fulvous tree ducks that live in Texas, at the extreme northernmost part of their range, migrate south for the winter. Fulvous Whistling-Ducks prefer marshy areas, and are especially fond of rice paddies. They like grain fields generally, as long as they are near water. Despite the fact they were once called "tree ducks" they do not nest or perch in trees.

These ducks build nests that are either on stick "platforms" just above the water or that float on the water. They are also considered frequent nest "parasites" and will lay eggs in the nests of other species of ducks.

Description: The word "fulvous" is defined as "reddish-yellow, tawny," so this duck's name describes its appearance. Its head, neck, chest, and belly are all shades of brown, from cinnamon to rust to dark brown. Males, females, and juveniles are all similar in appearance.

Fulvous Whistling-Ducks are dabblers, making shallow dives to eat. They tend to eat around dusk or just after dark. Mostly, they stay in small groups, but flocks of thousands have been known to gather around feeding time. Unlike many other duck species, the Fulvous Whistling-Duck does not have any elaborate courtship displays. They are hunted and in areas where grain is grown are sometimes considered a nuisance.