Unusual biology of Whistling Ducks

Yesterday’s nest and egg photo inspired me to share this photo of a brood (not current – too early) that shows something rare in ducks - biparental care.

Males help care for ducklings, which is unlike the great majority of worldwide ducks, but not geese and swans.

Even more unique is biparental incubation. Of the 150 or so worldwide waterfowl it is only the 8 species of Whistling Ducks where males incubate.

-Frank