Lesser Whistling Duck (Dendrocygna javanica)
The Lesser Whistling Duck is a small waterbird that belongs to the family Anatidae. It is found in many parts of Southeast Asia, including India, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
These ducks have a distinctive appearance, with a brownish-gray plumage on their body, a relatively long neck, and a small head. They have a whistling call that is often heard in their wetland habitats.
Lesser Whistling Ducks are typically found in wetland habitats, including swamps, marshes, and rice paddies. They feed on a variety of prey, including insects, small fish, and aquatic plants.
During breeding season, Lesser Whistling Ducks build a nest in vegetation near the water, laying 6-14 eggs per clutch. Both parents share the duties of incubating the eggs and caring for the young.
Lesser Whistling Ducks are considered a species of least concern by the IUCN Red List, as they are adaptable and found in a variety of wetland habitats. However, they can be threatened by habitat loss and degradation, hunting, and disturbance from human activity.
Overall, the Lesser Whistling Duck is an interesting and important species that plays a significant role in many wetland ecosystems in Southeast Asia.