White-backed duck

Scientific name: Thalassornis leuconotus

How weight is recorded: Whole weight

Field notes

Appearance

Medium-sized duck with distinctive white back contrasting dark head and neck; females duller overall. The white back is diagnostic and visible at distance; males darker than females with more prominent white patch.

Size and weight

Males 51–56 cm, 600–750 g; females 48–53 cm, 550–650 g.

Habitat

Prefers freshwater lakes, swamps, and reed-beds in lowland areas, typically below 2000 m. Favors waters with dense emergent vegetation and quiet, sheltered margins.

Distribution

Sub-Saharan Africa, with scattered populations in southern and eastern wetlands. Favors permanent freshwater bodies with good vegetation cover.

Diet

Primarily feeds on aquatic invertebrates, seeds, and plant matter obtained by dabbling and shallow diving; preference shifts to seeds and vegetation outside breeding season.

Behaviour

Primarily nocturnal and crepuscular, often resting on water during day. Solitary or in small loose groups; swift fliers despite dabbling-duck appearance. Highly vocal at dawn and dusk.

Hunting tips

Look for fresh droppings on reed margins and muddy banks to confirm occupation. Approach from downwind along vegetated shorelines at dawn or dusk when birds are most active. Use water margins and reed-line for concealment; birds flush readily from open water.

Whole weight

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

Where it is hunted

We have not yet recorded which countries this species is hunted in.

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.