Indian Spot-billed Duck vs Eastern Spot-billed Duck

In short

The bill pattern is the most reliable field mark: Indian Spot-billed Duck has a prominent yellow tip on its bill, while Eastern Spot-billed Duck lacks this feature. Both species are similar in size and structure, making bill coloration a key differentiator.

Identification tips

• Check the bill: Indian Spot-billed Duck has a yellow tip on its bill; Eastern Spot-billed Duck does not.
• Observe location: Indian Spot-billed Duck is more likely in the Indian subcontinent, while Eastern Spot-billed Duck is found in East Asia.
• Note plumage: Both have similar brown mottling and white-bordered green speculum, so rely on bill color for identification.

Size

Both species are similar in size and structure, typical of medium-sized dabbling ducks.

Plumage

Plumage is generally similar, with both species showing mottled brown bodies and a distinctive white-bordered green speculum on the wings.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical dabbling duck behavior, foraging in shallow waters and often seen in pairs or small groups.

Habitat

Both species inhabit freshwater wetlands, but the Indian Spot-billed Duck is more common in the Indian subcontinent, while the Eastern Spot-billed Duck is found in East Asia.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a reliable differentiator in the field, as both species have similar calls.