A rare fulvous whistling duck spotted in Keralam’s Malappuram

A flock of whistling ducks at Venjali wetlands in Cherumukku near Tirurangadi in Malappuram. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

A flock of more than 30 whistling ducks (Dendrocygna bicolor), a species rarely recorded in Kerala, was spotted at Venjali wetlands in 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. This bird is more commonly found in the wetlands of Assam and other northeastern states.

They reach Kerala around the onset of monsoon and usually return by October.

Bird watchers Kabeerali P., a teacher at PSMO College, Tirurangadi, and Fathima Sabeeha PP, a member of Malappuram Birders, made the observations.

The whistling duck can be confused with the whistling duck, which is commonly found in the state’s wetlands. A blackish line on the back of the neck, a white spot on the throat, a creamy white rump and its larger body help distinguish the fulvous whistling duck, Mr. Kabeerali said.

Flock of Fulvous Whistling Ducks in flight at Cherumukku near Tirurangadi. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

The species has long, stout, blue-gray legs and a gray bill. It is also known for its high-pitched whistling call. Males and females look similar, although males are slightly larger.

Cherumukku Wetlands recorded several other water birds and migratory species. 28 other species were also recorded during the last sighting, including pygmy goose, coot, wire-tailed swallow and glossy ibis.

Systematic waterfowl surveys conducted by the Bhoomithra Sena Club of PSMO College in collaboration with the Social Forestry Department, Malappuram Birders, Cherumukku Nattukaryam Koottayma, Friends of Nature and Sincere Club of Cherumukku over the last four years have recorded 70 to 80 bird species from the wetland.

Species such as the rare grey-headed lapwing, marsh wagtail, painted stork, golden eagle and strawberry finch have also been recorded at the site.

The permanent and seasonal water bodies at Venjali provide food and shelter for both migratory and resident birds, making Cherumukku an important stopover for long-distance birds.

Published – 03 Sep 2026 07:00 IST