My little neighborhood pond is now hosting a pair of Black-bellied Whistling
Ducks. We have a permanent population of domestic Mallards and some
Canadas, but occasionally get something interesting. The BBWD's were
swimming generally in the dam area, flew short distances, and vocalized. I
took some pictures which are hosted on my Flickr site:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/24987291@N00/?saved=1
I did not get any pictures of feet, but I was able to confirm with
binoculars the existence of back toes on both birds, if that means anything
to anybody. I suppose with fairly recent sightings (including Maryland last
year), there is a chance these are wild birds.
Pinewood Lake is a private lake, but is frequented by local fishermen and
other visitors from surrounding neighborhoods on a regular basis. If you
feel like visiting, just be subtle and I don't think anyone will bother you.
The ducks were last spotted on the island across from the end of Pinelake
Ct.
-Mark Moran
Alexandria, VA
