Birds
File:Anas sparsa, Walter Sisulu NBG 3.jpg

African Black Duck

African Black Duck

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The African Black Duck (Anas sparsa) is a dark, secretive dabbling duck found in sub-Saharan Africa. It prefers clear, fast-flowing rivers and streams in forested or mountainous regions, often remaining hidden in dense vegetation.
Where to spot
Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in central, eastern, and southern regions. Look for it along forested rivers, streams, and sometimes rocky coastlines.
How to spot
Look for a very dark, almost black duck with a dull grey bill and bright red legs. Its secretive nature means observing it often requires patience, scanning along riverbanks or quiet stretches of water, and listening for its soft quack.
When to spot
Year-round in its native range. Breeding activity varies regionally but often peaks during the wet season.
File:Anas sparsa, Walter Sisulu NBG 3.jpg
File:Anas sparsa 144037520.jpg
File:Anas sparsa African Black Duck IMG 9734.jpg
File:Anas sparsa African Black Duck IMG 9746.jpg
File:Anas sparsa African Black Duck IMG 9748.jpg
File:Anas sparsa African Black Duck IMG 9751.jpg
File:Anas sparsa ssp. sparsa.jpg
File:Anas sparsa, Walter Sisulu NBG 3.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Anas sparsa 144037520.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Anas sparsa African Black Duck IMG 9734.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Anas sparsa African Black Duck IMG 9746.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Anas sparsa African Black Duck IMG 9748.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Anas sparsa African Black Duck IMG 9751.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Anas sparsa ssp. sparsa.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Unlike many ducks that prefer open water, the African Black Duck is strongly associated with rocky, fast-flowing rivers and streams, where it feeds on aquatic invertebrates.
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