The white-faced whistling duck is so adaptable that it has successfully spread across two continents: South America and Africa. Its diet consists of food that it finds either in shallow water or by dabbling in deeper sections, and occasionally even by diving. When dredging, it takes water into its beak and then sifts out edible plant matter using the lamellae on its beak.
The white-faced whistling duck is usually out and about in the morning and evening hours, and sometimes at night as well. It always moves in flocks, often letting out its characteristic whistle. During the day, it rests on open water or along riverbanks. It spends a great deal of time preening its plumage, and to strengthen the bond with its mate, it also preens its partner’s head and neck.
Taxonomy
Anatidae, Dendrocygna (8 species)
Habitat
nutrient-rich inland waters
Social structure
permanent monogamy, sociable
Diet
plant parts, aquatic insects, molluscs, crustaceans
