14-10-2015 VALENCIA BIOPARC - SOUTHERN YELLOW BILLED DUCK (Anas undulata ssp. undulata)

The Yellow-Billed Duck is a dabbling duck from Southern and Eastern Africa.

There are two sub-species of the Yellow-Billed Duck, namely the Northern Yellow-Billed Duck and the Southern Yellow-Billed Duck.

The Southern Yellow-Billed Duck is in decline due to competition and hybridisation with the Mallard. The Yellow-Billed Duck is one of the wildfowl to which the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds applies.

The male has Brown with light scalloped plumage, darker on the back, with a light Grey streaked head and neck with Brown eyes. The bill is bright Yellow with a Black marking on the top and tip, the wings have a Green speculum and White under-wing. The legs and feet are Olive.

Appearance - Female

Similar to the male.

Habitat

Wetlands, Marshes, Swamps, Lakes and Streams.

Diet

Aquatic Plants, Seeds, Sedge, small Insects and Insect Larvae.

Breeding Time

December to April.

Nest

The nest is built on the ground from grass, rushes and reed stems and concealed by vegetation.

Eggs

Quantity: 6 to 12

Colour: Ivory.