A flock of Fulvous whistling ducks at Venjali wetlands at Cherumukku near Tirurangadi in Malappuram.
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
A flock of more than 30 Fulvous whistling ducks (Dendrocygna bicolor), a species rarely recorded in Kerala, has been spotted at the Venjali wetlands at Cherumukku near Tirurangadi in Malappuram district. This is the first reported sighting of the species in Malappuram.The species was reported earlier from Kollam district. The bird is more commonly found in the wetlands of Assam and other northeastern States.They reach Keralam around the beginning of the monsoon and usually return by October.The sighting was made by birdwatchers Kabeerali P., teacher at PSMO College, Tirurangadi, and Fathima Sabeeha P.P., member of Malappuram Birders.The Fulvous whistling duck can be confused with the Lesser whistling duck, which is common in the State’s wetlands. A blackish line along the back of the neck, a white patch on the throat, a creamy-white rump, and its larger body help distinguish the Fulvous whistling duck, said Mr. Kabeerali.
A flock of Fulvous whistling ducks in flight at Cherumukku near Tirurangadi.
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