Observation on breeding behavior of white breasted water hen (Amaurornis phoenicurus: Pennant, 1769) in the wetlands of East Calcutta, and Behala

Abstract

The white breasted water hen (Amaurornis phoenicurus) is a small water bird, locally known as ‘Dahuk’ in West Bengal, India. The bird is black in colour dorsally and ventrally white. There is a red spot present on the base of beak and a large red spot under the tail. Beak and legs are pale yellow in colour. Legs and fingers are very long and bony; adapted for movement over aquatic vegetation. Tail is very short. Male is slightly larger than female, Their pairing or life partnership is life long and male bird strongly maintain their territory. They made the floating nest during egg laying. Both male and female show parental care and learning behavior. Newborn chick of white breasted water hen is completely black in colour.