19/12/2016
Lesser whistling duck
"Family Time"
Whistling ducks comprise a group of species that are primarily of tropical and subtropical distribution. In common with the swans and true geese ,the included species have a reticulated tarsal surface pattern, produce vocalizations that are similar or identical in both sexes, form relatively permanent pair bonds, and lack complex pair-forming behavior patterns. Unlike the geese and swans, whistling ducks have clear, often melodious whistling voices that are the basis for their group name. The alternative name, tree ducks, is far less appropriate, since few of the species regularly perch or nest in trees. All the species have relatively long legs and large feet that extend beyond the fairly short tail when the birds are in flight. They dive well, and some species obtain much of their food in this manner.
F5.6
