Black-bellied Whistling-Duck

The Black-bellied Whistling-Duck is a locally distributed resident in Ecuador, favoring lowland freshwater wetlands, rice fields, and seasonally flooded savannas, particularly in the western and Amazonian regions. It occurs year-round in small to medium-sized flocks, often perching in trees or loafing near shallow ponds where it feeds on seeds, aquatic vegetation, and invertebrates. Globally listed as Least Concern, its population remains stable, aided by its adaptability to human-altered landscapes and cavity-nesting habits. Notably social and vocal, this species often nests communally in tree hollows or nest boxes, with both sexes sharing incubation duties and raising precocial young that quickly leave the nest.