Lesser whistling duck

The lesser whistling duck (Dendrocygna javanica) is a common bird inhabiting wetlands in India, often flocking in large numbers. It is also known as the Indian whistling duck or lesser whistling teal. It is also called the lesser tree duck since they sometimes nest in hollows of trees. As they are nocturnal feeders, they are often sighted resting in flocks around lakes and wet fields during the day.

Lesser whistling duck, Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary

These predominantly brown colored birds emit a whistling sound while flying. They mostly eat water plants, seeds, insects and aquatic invertebrates. They also dive frequently to feed, and would fly away at the hint of slightest danger.  They do not have any significant threat from hunters, as they are mostly considered inedible in India.

Lesser whistling duck, Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary

Often these birds are found to fly in flocks when threatened by a predator which includes birds of prey. Their flight is usually of a chevron formation.

Lesser whistling duck, Okhla Bird Sanctuary

Many of my photographs are from the Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary in Bharatpur, India though these birds are sighted almost everywhere I have been for birding. Though these birds are resident, their numbers increase during winter which suggests some level of migration. 

Lesser whistling duck, Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary

The lesser whistling ducks are found across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, including India, Nepal, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam and Indonesia. They are also sighted in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and Maldives. They breed during the rainy season.

Lesser whistling duck, Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary

One interesting fact about these birds is that they are known to carry their young on the back of the parents.