Knob billed Duck (Sarkidiornis melanotos) Wildlife Vagabond This is the KNOB BILLED DUCK, also known as the African Comb Duck (Sarkidiornis melanotos) This striking waterfowl is instantly recognizable by the large black knob on the bill of adult This bird wears its crown not of feathers, but of horn. The Knob billed Duck (Sarkidiornis melanotos), also known as the Comb Duck, is one of the most unmistakable waterfowl in the world. The knob billed duck (Sarkidiornis melanotos) aka African comb duck, is found in tropical wetlands in Sub Saharan Africa, Madagascar and the Indian Subcontinent from northern India to Laos and extreme southern China. African Comb Duck Sarkidiornis melanotos Borrow others' nests Comb Duck, or Knob billed Duck males have a large growth, or comb, on the top of their black beak. During breeding season, the male's Sarkidiornis melanotos (Comb duck, Knob billed duck)