Chiloe Wigeon
NameChiloe Wigeon
Common NameChiloe Wigeon
Scientific NameSpatula sibilatrix
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)80
Length (cm)48.5
Weight (g)850
Plumage DetailsMales have a distinctive white face with a narrow black line from the bill to the eye, and a broad iridescent green cap extending from the crown to the nape. The throat and neck are blackish-brown. The breast and flanks are finely barred grey and white, with a prominent rufous-orange patch on the flanks. The back is dark brown, and the undertail coverts are white. The bill is pale blue-grey with a black tip. Females are similar but duller, with less vibrant green on the cap and a more mottled brown body.
Vocalization / CallMales produce a soft, whistling 'whee-oo' or 'sibilating' call, while females have a harsher quack.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in southern South America, including Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, southern Brazil, and the Falkland Islands. Some populations undertake seasonal migrations.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent green cap on head, White face with dark eye-stripe, Mottled grey body with rufous flanks, Pale blue-grey bill with black tip, Whistling vocalization
Description
The Chiloe Wigeon is a medium-sized dabbling duck known for its striking head pattern. Males feature a white face, a dark eye-stripe, and an iridescent green cap, contrasting with a mottled grey body and rufous flanks. They are typically found in freshwater habitats across southern South America.
