Image © Jim Gain
Nomenclature
Scientific Name: Dendrocygna bicolor
Name in Spanish (Mexico): Pijije Canelo
Name in Mayan (if known): Pijiiji
ABA 4-Letter Bird Code: FUWD
About this Species
The Fulvous Whistling-duck (Dendrocygna bicolor) is a migratory waterbird species that is widely distributed throughout the Americas, including the Yucatan Peninsula. These ducks are easily recognizable due to their distinctive whistling calls, long legs, and unique coloring, which features a reddish-brown body and a black bill.
In the Yucatan Peninsula, Fulvous Whistling-ducks are found in a variety of wetland habitats, including freshwater marshes, swamps, and lagoons. They are primarily herbivorous, feeding on aquatic vegetation, seeds, and grains, and they are known to form large flocks during the non-breeding season.
During the breeding season, Fulvous Whistling-ducks form monogamous pairs and build their nests in tall grasses or reeds near water. Females typically lay between 10-12 eggs, and both parents take turns incubating the eggs and caring for the young. Overall, the natural history of the Fulvous Whistling-duck in the Yucatan Peninsula highlights the importance of protecting wetland habitats for the conservation of this unique species.
*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)