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Description
The Chiloé Wigeon is native to fresh-water lakes, marshes and rivers of Southern South America. They have been kept and bred in captivity since 1873 and are very common in waterfowl collections today.
The sexes are similar, with the females being slightly duller with a gray wing patch (white in males). The drakes have bright white cheeks and forehead and metallic green head. The breast is barred white and black; the sides are orange-brown and the back is mostly dark gray with white streaks. The bill is gray with a black tip and the legs and feet are dark gray.
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Breeding
This Wigeon is easy to breed in captivity. The hens begin laying their clutch of 6 to 11 eggs in early April. They prefer to nest in vegetation, but will use a nest box if provided. We have used triangle boxes that are 14" long and open on one end. They will also use boxes that are 15" square that are also opened on one end. Place branches and plant cover around the opening to give the hens extra
security.
The ducklings hatch in about 25 days, and if are hatched by the hen, both parents will take part in the rearing of the ducklings. They will acquire their adult plumage their first year, but may not breed until they are two.
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General Comments
Chiloé Wigeons are highly recommended for the beginner. They are Winter hardy and are easy to care for. Wigeons love to graze, so provide plenty of greens. They are great additions to mixed collection of waterfowl, never trying harass other species.
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Chiloé Wigeon
Drake
Chiloé Wigeon Hen
Chiloé Wigeon Pair
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