West Indian whistling-duck

Scientific name: Dendrocygna arborea

How weight is recorded: Whole weight

Field notes

Appearance

A medium-sized duck with a long neck, long legs, and upright posture. Plumage is predominantly warm brown with a contrasting pale face and neck; the back is darker, and legs are reddish. Both sexes similar in appearance, though males may be slightly larger.

Size and weight

Adults weigh 400–600 g; body length approximately 48–53 cm. Sexual dimorphism in size is minimal.

Habitat

West Indian whistling-ducks inhabit freshwater and brackish wetlands, including swamps, marshes, mangrove areas, and shallow ponds with emergent vegetation. They favour lowland habitats from sea level to moderate elevations.

Distribution

Endemic to the Caribbean, with populations across the Bahamas, Cuba, Hispaniola, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and smaller islands. Prefers secluded freshwater wetlands with minimal human disturbance.

Diet

Feeds primarily on seeds, plant matter, and invertebrates; grazes on terrestrial vegetation and dabbles in shallow water for aquatic plants and insects, with diet shifting seasonally based on local food availability.

Behaviour

Highly vocal and sociable; most active during dawn, dusk, and night. Forms flocks year-round and often roosts in trees or on open water; strong fliers capable of sustained flight between wetland sites.

Hunting tips

Look for tracks and droppings around shallow margins and roosting trees; concentrate effort during dawn and dusk when birds are most vocal and mobile. Approach wetlands quietly from downwind; use calling to locate birds and respond to their distinctive whistles. Position yourself near flight lines between roosting and feeding areas for optimal encounter chances.

Whole weight

This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.

Where it is hunted

Listed as huntable in 3 countries in Huntify.

Names in other languages

These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.