Black Bellied Whistling Duck ( Dendrocygna autumnalis)

Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN)

Local Status: Resident, non-migratory breeder                                                  Home 

Local Name: Wicisisi, Tree duck

The Black‑bellied Whistling Duck (BBWD) is one of the most charismatic waterfowl found in Barbados. It is to only breeding, undomesticated duck species on the island. Found mainly in the northern and eastern parishes where it is normally heard inflight after sunset.

Description: BBWD is a very colorful duck about 18–21" (45–53 cm) in length. The head is a pale gray, brownish upper parts and black belly.  It is hard to miss the long pink legs and reddish bill of the adults, both of which sexes are

identical. 

In flight, a broad and highly visible white wing stripe, running across the upperwing and flashing prominently in flight.

Juveniles are noticeably duller than adults, with overall brownish plumage and less contrast in markings with a gray bill and legs. lacking the vivid pink tones of mature birds.

 Ducklings are tiny, downy, and strikingly patterned. They hatch with soft brown and yellow downy feathers, with gray bills and legs.

Habitat in Barbados: very visible in the northern and eastern parishes. It prefers shallow freshwater ponds, lakes, and marshes. 

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