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Black-bellied Whistling-Duck
Dendrocygna autumnalis
Family: ANATIDAE
Order: Anseriformes
Spanish Common Name: Suirirí piquirrojo, Pato maizal
French Common Name: Dendrocygne à ventre noir
Howard B. Eskin |
Courtesy of Kenn Kaufman |
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Conservation Status
Global Population: 1,550,000
Continental Population: 550,000
Watchlist Status: 
Audubon State of the Birds Status: no current conservation concerns
The Black-bellied Whistling-Duck is an unusual species among North American waterfowl. With its long legs, peculiar appearance, and odd habits, it was described by one early American ornithologist as "most un-duck-like." Its numbers are increasing in North America.
Range & Distribution
The Black-bellied Whistling-Duck is a common bird on the Mexico coast. To the south, its range extends throughout Central America, and across much of South America. In the United States, it can be found year-round in parts of southeast Texas, and seasonally in southeast Arizona, and Louisiana's Gulf Coast. It is a rare breeder in such disparate locations as Florida, Arkansas, and South Carolina.
A legend for the range map to the right can be found here.
Population Status & Trends
Black-bellied Whistling-Duck populations are currently stable or increasing. The species expanded its range significantly in the latter half of the 20th century, and has benefited in recent years from the placement of nest boxes across key portions of its range. Breeding Bird Survey and Christmas Bird Count data both confirm that populations of this species have increased significantly over the past 30 years.
Conservation Issues & Efforts
The existence of healthy coastal wetlands greatly benefits Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks. In past years, over-hunting was a serious concern, largely due to the species' relatively docile nature. Current populations, however, seem to be secure in number.
What You Can Do
Place nest boxes in suitable habitats for Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks. They often respond enthusiastically to such efforts!
Remain aware of local, regional, and federal land management decisions, particularly those that affect our wetlands. Contact your legislators in support of wise land management initiatives, such as wetland restoration along the Gulf Coast, and implementation of The North American Waterfowl Management Plan.
For other actions you can take, including Audubon activities, please visit our resources page.
For More Information
References
James, J. D., and J. E. Thompson. 2001. Black-bellied Whistling-Duck (Dendrocygna autumnalis). In The Birds of North America, No. 578 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
Kortright, Francis H. The Ducks, Geese and Swans of North America. The American Wildlife Institute, Washington D.C., 1943
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