Knob-billed Duck
NameKnob-billed Duck
Common NameKnob-billed Duck
Scientific NameSarkidiornis melanotos
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)130
Length (cm)66
Weight (g)1800
Plumage DetailsMales have a distinctive large black knob on the bill. Both sexes have a white head and neck heavily speckled with black, a black crown, and an iridescent blue-green to purple back and wings. The flanks are greyish, and the belly is white.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a silent bird, but males may produce a low croak or grunt during courtship displays. Females emit a soft quack.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in tropical wetlands across sub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar, and South Asia, including India and parts of Southeast Asia.
Identifying FeaturesProminent black knob on male's bill, Black-spotted white head and neck, Iridescent blue-green to purple back and wings, Large size for a duck
Description
The Knob-billed Duck is a large duck characterized by the prominent, fleshy black knob on the male's bill, especially noticeable during breeding season. It inhabits freshwater wetlands, where it forages for aquatic vegetation and insects, often seen in small groups.
