The Wandering Whistling Duck (Dendrocygna arcuata) is a captivating waterfowl species native to Australia, Southeast Asia, and the Indian subcontinent. Also known colloquially in Northern Territory, Australia as :red whistler," this medium-sized duck is recognized for its distinctive markings, unique vocalizations, and nomadic habits.
Quarter-mile walk through sun-baked wild pig and water buffalo wallows to the waters edge Seated in waist-high grass when in the hot coals bed to the east rose the fireball sun, reminder that temps would soon be soaring well into hades. Endless bird life river flowing overhead to include magpie geese, various ducks, all the while my friend Glen Falla narrating. Besides visiting me Aussie mates who’d not been seen since before the world shut down, there were 3 bucket-list reasons. First crack of the morning scratched number 2 for the trip-a beautiful Wandering Whistling Duck, or “red whistler,” as they’re colloquially called. Found in northern Australia and the South Pacific, they have dark fulvous-like upper bodies, dark caramel chests. Their flank feathers are beautifully elongated, their upper wing coverts strikingly cinnamon, dark gray bills and feet. Strongly associated with wetlands, where, judging from their crops, they feed on sedges and lily pad seed. A magpie goose limit was soon had, enjoyed watching nearby Radjah shelducks (the only shelduck species lacked worldwide) and green pygmy geese both of which are protected. Crocodile Dundee doesn’t have anything on red bearded Dwayne, who cheerfully braves local waters with a fishing pole to recover downed birds, and is an absolute crack shot like most of these ozzie duck hunters. Elated to have scratched 2 bucket-list species in 2 days, had unloaded and prepared for the sweaty walk out when more whistlers came in tall waves washing over the wetland from distant grasslands.