ebirdWhite-faced Whistling Duck (Dendrocygna viduata) – This stunning duck with its bright white face brings a touch of exotic charm to the ornithological garden of the Au Bois Vert lodge, just near Antananarivo International Airport in Ivato.
What does it look like?
The White-faced Whistling Duck is recognized by its sharply contrasting white face, dark reddish-brown back, and black-and-white striped belly. It has a black bill, lead-gray legs, and measures about 45 cm, with a wingspan close to one meter.
Its song or cry
The White-faced Whistling Duck emits harsh, piercing calls, often heard in groups as a “whaa-whut.” At dusk, its cry carries far beyond the shores, enlivening the atmosphere of the ornithological garden.
An anecdote or fun fact
White-faced Whistling Ducks are inseparable: they move in pairs or small groups. In Ivato, they are often seen taking off together, flapping their wings in perfect synchronization — a real little group performance!
Where and when to see it in our garden?
You can easily spot them at the water’s edge, early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Thanks to the tranquility between the restaurant and the lodge, their silhouette stands out on the calm water.
Why does he love our garden?
The White-faced Whistling Duck favors calm bodies of water and grassy banks. The setting of the lodge, restaurant, and hotel Au Bois Vert in Ivato provides the perfect environment: wetlands, protective vegetation, and welcome tranquility despite the proximity of the international airport.
Tips for observing it
Settle quietly near the reeds, a few meters from the lake. Bring binoculars and keep a minimum distance of 10 meters. The best time? Dawn or dusk, when they graze peacefully along the shore.
