Known locally as "itik", the Philippine Duck is a medium-sized duck species endemic to the Philippines. Males have a striking appearance with a glossy black head and neck, while females have a more subdued brown plumage. They typically inhabit freshwater wetlands, including marshes, swamps, and rice paddies. These ducks are known for their adaptability and can also be found in urban areas, such as parks and ponds.
Philippine Mallard (*Anas Platyrhynchos Luzonica*)
The Philippine Mallard is a subspecies of the widespread Mallard duck found in the Philippines. Similar to the Northern Mallard, male Philippine Mallards have a green head and neck, with a white collar and chestnut-colored breast. Females, however, have a browner overall appearance. These ducks prefer freshwater habitats, including marshes, lakes, and rivers. They are commonly observed in wetlands throughout the country.
Spot-billed Duck (*Anas Poecilorhyncha*)
Spot-billed Ducks are small- to medium-sized ducks with a distinctive spot on their bill, giving them their name. They have a brownish plumage with a white underbelly and a pale blue wing speculum. These ducks inhabit a variety of wetlands, including marshes, swamps, and shallow lakes. They are widespread across the Philippines and can be found in both rural and urban areas.
Northern Shoveler (*Spatula Clypeata*)
Northern Shovelers are medium-sized ducks known for their unique spoon-shaped bill. Males have a bright green head and neck with a white chest, while females have mottled brown plumage. These ducks are primarily found in freshwater habitats such as marshes, shallow lakes, and flooded fields. They are considered migratory birds and can be observed in the Philippines during the winter months.
Garganey Teal (*Anas Querquedula*)
Garganey Teals are small migratory ducks that visit the Philippines during the winter season. They have a distinctive breeding plumage, with males displaying a brown head, white face, and chestnut underparts. Females, on the other hand, have a mottled brown appearance. Garganey Teals prefer shallow wetlands, such as marshes, swamps, and rice paddies. They are known for their melodious whistling calls.
Eurasian Wigeon (*Anas Penelope*)
Eurasian Wigeons are medium-sized ducks that migrate to the Philippines during the winter. Males have a distinctive white forehead, brown head and neck, and a grayish body. Females have a more uniform brown plumage. They inhabit a variety of wetlands, including marshes, lakes, and flooded fields. Eurasian Wigeons are known for their melodious whistling calls.
These are just a few of the many duck species found in the Philippines. The country's diverse wetlands and aquatic habitats support a rich variety of waterfowl, providing important stopover and wintering grounds for migratory species.