Plumed Whistling-Duck

1. Prominent buff-coloured flank plumes edged in dark brown.

2. Upright posture with long neck and pink legs.

3. Bright orange-yellow eyes paired with a mottled pink bill.

Unlike many ducks, Plumed Whistling Ducks graze primarily on land, feeding on grasses and herbs rather than foraging in water. They breed during the wet season, nesting on the ground in tall grasslands. Both parents share incubation duties for the 8-14 eggs over 28-3 days and care for the ducklings until they mature. These social birds form strong pair bonds that often last a lifetime.

Plumed Whistling Ducks inhabit open grasslands near freshwater wetlands across northern and eastern Australia. They are often seen resting in large flocks during the day on bare banks of dams, lakes, and swamps. At dusk, smaller groups disperse to feed on grassy plains or crop stubble. Agricultural areas with short grass and accessible water are common feeding grounds. Their melodious whistling calls can be heard at dawn and dusk when flocks take flight.