With its elusive nature and captivating features, it remains a bird shrouded in mystery, often leaving birdwatchers fortunate to catch even a fleeting glimpse of its presence. Despite its scarcity in sightings, the Masked finfoot possesses unique morphological characteristics that distinguish it as a species worth cherishing and protecting.

This gregarious bird is typically found in lush, well-vegetated waterways, including mangroves, shaded rivers, and swamps, where it demonstrates remarkable swimming abilities. Equipped with half-webbed feet or lobed feet, the Masked finfoot is also a proficient climber, allowing it to navigate through dense foliage and swiftly take cover in bushes at the slightest hint of danger.

In its watery habitats, the Masked finfoot feeds on a diverse array of aquatic invertebrates, snails, and small fish, utilizing its sharp beak and agile movements to capture prey. Despite its aquatic prowess, the Masked finfoot is equally at home on land, where it may forage for food along the water’s edge or seek refuge among the vegetation.

During the breeding season, which coincides with the onset of favorable environmental conditions, the Masked finfoot constructs its nest with sticks and vegetation, forming a thick pad that floats atop the water’s surface. Here, the female lays her eggs and incubates them, while both parents share the responsibilities of caring for the young once hatched.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Bangladesh

80-160

Official estimate

CR

2020

Sundarbans

Cambodia

12-64

Official estimate

CR

2020

India

4

Official estimate

CR

2020

Possibly Extant

Indonesia

2020

Possibly Extant

Laos

4-30

Official estimate

CR

2020

Malaysia

2020

Possibly Extant

Myanmar

12-40

Official estimate

CR

2020

Singapore

2020

Possibly Extant

Thailand

2020

Possibly Extant

Vietnam

6

Official estimate

CR

2020