This species inhabits lowland marshes, swamps, lagoons, the banks of slow-flowing rivers and seasonally flooded alluvial plains, often in areas surrounded by forest (del Hoyo et al. 1992). It is exclusively vegetarian, grazing the green parts of succulent aquatic plants (del Hoyo et al. 1992), although digging for unknown food items is regular (Naranjo 1986). The nest is a large mass of marsh vegetation built up from the water, and 2-7 eggs are laid mostly in October to November, but breeding continues throughout the year (del Hoyo et al. 1992).

This species occurs in north-west Venezuela around Lago Maracaibo and north Colombia.

Conservation and Research Actions Underway
The species occurs in several protected areas across its range, including Ciénagas de Juan Manuel National Park in Venezuela and Los Katíos National Park in Colombia (Sharpe et al. 2015, Renjifo et al. 2016). In Colombia, environmental education workshops have been carried out to raise awareness for the species (Renjifo et al. 2016). It is listed as Vulnerable at the national levels in Venezuela and Colombia (Sharpe et al. 2015, Renjifo et al. 2016).

Conservation and Research Actions Proposed
Survey to locate additional populations and to refine the distribution range. Produce an accurate quantification of the global population size. Quantify the impact of threats on the population size. Monitor the population trend. Monitor the expansion of the distribution range.
Increase the area of suitable habitat that has protected status. Improve the management of protected areas that are suffering encroachment and degradation. Control pollution in the species' habitats. Continue and expand environmental education and awareness programmes.