Savanna Waterfowl

Discovery LocationOkavango Delta, Botswana

Lead ResearcherMs. J. Moreau

Field Report Summary

Physical Description

A large, flightless bird, resembling a duck in its body shape but with a remarkably long, giraffe-like neck. Its plumage is a mottled brown and tan, providing excellent camouflage in the savanna. It has sturdy, clawed feet for walking long distances. Its bill is flattened and adapted for filtering water and consuming vegetation. About 7 feet tall.

Habitat

African savanna

Dietary Behavior

A filter feeder, consuming algae, small crustaceans, and seeds in shallow water.

Evolutionary Origin

Hybridization of a duck ancestor and some sort of wading bird, coupled with niche-differentiation, created this highly-specialized species.

Behavioral Notes

Forms large flocks during the dry season.