Indian spot-billed duck

The Indian spot-billed duck is a species of large dabbling duck that is a non-migratory breeding duck throughout freshwater wetlands in the Indian subcontinent. The name is derived from the red spot at the base of the bill that is found in the mainland Indian population. When in water it can be recognized from a long distance by the white tertials that form a stripe on the side, and in flight it is distinguished by the green speculum with a broad white band at the base. This species and the eastern spot-billed duck were formerly considered conspecific, together called the spot-billed duck.

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Distribution

Region

South Asia

Typical Environment

Widespread across the Indian subcontinent, including India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and parts of Myanmar. Occupies freshwater wetlands such as lakes, marshes, village ponds, reservoirs, and slow-flowing rivers. It readily uses agricultural landscapes, especially rice fields and irrigation tanks, and is common in peri-urban waterbodies. Prefers shallow, gently sloping shorelines with emergent vegetation for cover. Avoids very fast-flowing water and extensive open seas.

Altitude Range

0–2000 m

Climate Zone

Subtropical

Characteristics

Size55–63 cm

Wing Span80–95 cm

Male Weight1.2 kg

Female Weight1 kg

Life Expectancy9 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

A familiar dabbling duck of the Indian subcontinent, it is easily recognized by the yellow-tipped bill with a red spot at the base (in mainland birds) and a gleaming green speculum bordered with white. It often occurs in pairs or small groups on quiet wetlands, where the white tertials form a bold stripe when at rest on the water. Females give loud quacks reminiscent of a Mallard, while males are quieter with wheezy notes. It adapts well to human-altered habitats such as rice paddies and village tanks.

Gallery

Characteristic green speculum with white base and white tertials

Male with red spot at the base of bill

A pair of Indian spot-billed duck at Kaziranga National Park

Behaviour

Temperament

alert but tolerant near humans

Flight Pattern

strong and direct with rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Usually seen in pairs or small flocks outside the breeding season, sometimes forming larger groups at rich feeding sites. Nests on the ground close to water, concealed in grasses or scrub. Pairs form in the dry season, and both sexes guard the brood, with females leading ducklings to cover.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Females give loud, repetitive quacks similar to a Mallard hen. Males produce softer, wheezy whistles and grunts, especially during display. Flight calls are sharp and carry over open water.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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