Image © Jim Gain
Nomenclature
Scientific Name: Dendrocygna autumnalis
Name in Spanish (Mexico): Pijije Alas Blancas
Name in Mayan (if known): Pijiiji
ABA 4-Letter Bird Code: BBWD
About this Species
The Black-bellied Whistling-duck (Dendrocygna autumnalis) is a unique species of duck found in the Yucatan Peninsula and throughout much of the Americas. These ducks are known for their striking appearance, with a black belly contrasting against a rust-colored back and sides, as well as their distinctive whistling calls.
In the Yucatan Peninsula, Black-bellied Whistling-ducks are typically found in wetlands, mangroves, and other freshwater habitats. They are social birds and can often be found in large flocks, sometimes numbering in the hundreds. During the breeding season, pairs will build nests in tree cavities or on the ground, and females will typically lay around 10 eggs.
Black-bellied Whistling-ducks are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant and animal material. They are also known to form strong pair bonds and may mate for life. While they are not considered a threatened species, habitat loss and hunting remain significant threats to their populations in certain areas.
*Occurrence and Distribution in the Yucatan Peninsula
RESIDENCY STATUS: Yearround Resident
FREQUENCY STATUS: Fairly Common in the...
DISTRIBUTION TRENDS: Highest populations are in the ...
*This information was gathered from eBird (www.ebird.org)