Indian Spot-billed duck (Anas poecilorhyncha) गुगरल, गर्मपाय - Birds Around Me 0127

The Spot‑billed Duck (Anas poecilorhyncha), known in Hindi as गुगरल or गर्मपाय, is one of the most familiar and widespread ducks across the Indian subcontinent. Medium‑sized and elegant, it measures about 55–63 cm in length, with a sturdy body, broad wings, and a distinctive bill marked by a bright yellow tip and characteristic black spots on either side—hence the name “spot‑billed.”  

Indian Spot-billed duck (Anas poecilorhyncha) गुगरल, गर्मपाय
Jabalpur, December 2025

Its plumage is predominantly mottled brown, providing excellent camouflage in wetlands. A striking white wing bar and green speculum (the iridescent patch on the wing) flash vividly in flight. Both sexes look alike, though males tend to be slightly larger. The bird’s upright stance and calm demeanor make it easy to recognize among mixed flocks of ducks.  

India Spot-billed duck (Anas poecilorhyncha) गुगरल, गर्मपाय

Spot‑billed Ducks inhabit lakes, ponds, rivers, marshes, and village tanks, often seen swimming in pairs or small groups. They are omnivorous, feeding on aquatic plants, seeds, grains, insects, and small fish. Their adaptability allows them to thrive even in human‑dominated landscapes, making them a common sight near agricultural fields and reservoirs.  

Breeding occurs during the monsoon. Nests are built close to water, hidden among vegetation. The female lays 8–14 eggs, and both parents guard the brood. Ducklings are precocial, able to swim and feed themselves soon after hatching.  

Culturally, the Spot‑billed Duck holds significance in rural India, where its presence in village ponds is associated with seasonal rhythms of rain and harvest. Unlike migratory ducks, this species is largely resident, though some populations move locally in response to water availability.  

Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, the Spot‑billed Duck remains abundant, but wetland degradation and pollution pose long‑term threats. Protecting India’s wetlands ensures that the graceful गुगरल / गर्मपाय continues to thrive as a symbol of harmony between people and nature.  

Hindi Name of Indian vulture or long-billed vulture (Gyps indicus): देशी गिद्ध

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Ashutosh Jhureley @BirdsAroundMe

India Spot-billed duck (Anas poecilorhyncha) गुगरल, गर्मपाय

Indian Spot-billed duck (Anas poecilorhyncha) गुगरल, गर्मपाय
Jabalpur, December 2025

Indian Spot-billed duck (Anas poecilorhyncha) गुगरल, गर्मपाय
Jabalpur, December 2025

Indian Spot-billed duck (Anas poecilorhyncha) गुगरल, गर्मपाय
Jabalpur, December 2025

Indian Spot-billed duck (Anas poecilorhyncha) गुगरल, गर्मपाय
Jabalpur, December 2025