White Winged Wood Duck – Wildlife Conservation

On May 18, 1985, India Post issued a ₹2 stamp featuring the White-Winged Wood Duck, one of the rarest and most endangered waterfowl in the world. Locally known as Deo Hans, this striking bird is native to the dense, tropical evergreen forests of Northeast India, particularly within the wetlands of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. The stamp highlights the urgent need for wildlife conservation, as the species faces a critical threat from habitat loss and the thinning of primary forests. By featuring this elusive bird, the issue serves as a powerful reminder of the delicate balance within our ecosystems and the national commitment to preserving biodiversity. For collectors and nature enthusiasts, this stamp remains a definitive tribute to India's unique avian heritage and the ongoing effort to protect species on the brink of extinction.

Technical data Notes Condition

Date of issue May 18, 1985

Denomination Rs. 2

Quantity printed 1500000

Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik

Perforation comb 13¾

Watermark No Watermark

Colours Multicolor

Catalogue codes Michel IN 1021 Stamp Number IN 1088 Yvert et Tellier IN 837 Stanley Gibbons IN 1159

Themes Animals (Fauna), Birds, Ducks

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About this stamp

Commemorative Stamp: White Winged Wood Duck

The White Winged Wood Duck, scientifically known as Asarcornis scutulata, is a majestic and endangered species native to the dense tropical evergreen forests of South-East Asia. This commemorative stamp celebrates its unique characteristics and underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect its habitat.

Physical Characteristics

Appearance: The White Winged Wood Duck is distinguished by its large size, with a black body adorned with white patches on the wings, a white head speckled with black, and striking red or orange eyes. The male is larger and more glossy than the female.
Size: On average, these ducks measure about 81 cm in length.

Habitat and Behavior

Natural Habitat: This duck is primarily found in inaccessible swampy areas within dense tropical evergreen forests. It prefers secluded jungle pools and avoids human disturbances.
Behavior: The White Winged Wood Duck is known for its ghostly and distinctive voice, earning it the Assamese name ‘Deo Hans’ or Spirit Duck. It is active during the night, feeding on a diet that includes aquatic plants, insects, crustaceans, mollusks, frogs, snakes, and fish.

Conservation Status

Threatened Species: Declared one of the most threatened species of ducks in North-Eastern India in 1952, the White Winged Wood Duck faces significant challenges due to habitat destruction caused by human activities.
Conservation Efforts: Efforts to protect this species focus on preserving its dense, undisturbed primary rainforest habitat in South-East Asia. Conservation measures include habitat restoration, protection from poaching, and raising awareness about the species’ plight.

Conclusion

Issued by the Department of Posts, this commemorative stamp serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of protecting endangered species like the White Winged Wood Duck. By highlighting its unique features and conservation needs, the stamp encourages global efforts to safeguard biodiversity and preserve natural habitats for future generations.

This stamp not only celebrates the beauty and significance of the White Winged Wood Duck but also calls attention to the critical need for conservation actions to ensure its survival in the wild.