Anas undulata
The Yellow-billed Duck (Anas undulata) is a medium-sized dabbling duck, averaging 51-58 cm in length with a wingspan of approximately 80-90 cm and weighing between 600-1100 grams. Its most striking and diagnostic feature is its bright yellow bill, sharply tipped with black, which immediately distinguishes it from other dabbling ducks in its range. The body plumage is predominantly dark mottled brown, with paler feather edges creating a scalloped effect across its back and flanks, while the un...
This adaptable duck primarily inhabits freshwater wetlands, including marshes, swamps, rivers, dams, and temporary pools, often preferring areas with emergent vegetation. It is found from low-lying coastal plains up to considerable altitudes in the African highlands.
Their diet primarily consists of aquatic vegetation, seeds, roots, and tubers, supplemented by a variety of aquatic invertebrates such as insects, molluscs, and crustaceans. They forage mainly by dabbling on the water's surface or upending in shallow water.
Yellow-billed Ducks are diurnal, often foraging during the day and roosting in sheltered areas, though they may feed nocturnally under moonlight. They are classic dabbling ducks, tipping upside down to reach submerged vegetation and invertebrates, or sifting through mud at the water's edge. While...
The Yellow-billed Duck is widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, primarily as a resident species with localized movements. The nominate subspecies, *Anas undulata undulata*, occupies Southern Africa, extending from Angola, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe south through South Africa, Lesotho...
Least Concern
- The Yellow-billed Duck's bright yellow bill with a black tip is a unique field mark that clearly distinguishes it from all other dabbling ducks in its African range. - There are two recognized subspecies: *Anas undulata undulata* (Southern Yellow-billed Duck) and *Anas undulata rueppelli* (Nort...