Black bellied and Fulvous tree ducks have been in La since the early 70's that I am aware of. I took Waterfowl biology at SLU in Hammond in Fall 72 and we were told both species had already invaded Southwest La. They had followed the rice fields North and east in Louisiana .It was speculated then they would populate all of Louisiana in a few years .My Prof. David Soileau was correct.
You could kill them by the 100s in the rice fields. They're a huge problem in swla, we usually shoot about 5 cases of shells a week just trying to keep them from eating the expensive rice seed. Never had a problem with the wardens for being over the limit or out of season because most of them understand the problem, but the limit is 6.
They both belong to the perching duck family, like wood ducks. Fulvous whistling ducks are slighty larger than the Rosy Billed or black bellied species. Great ducks, but like several other species can make it tough on the rice farmers, but so can others. They have always been here just in smaller numbers here and there. Just like insect populations up and down.
you can kill them during big duck season but they are usually in mexico by then for the most part. limit is 6. very good eating, shoot all you can