Muscovy duck

Muscovy Duck

The Muscovy Duck (Cairina moschata) is a large duck native to Mexico, Central America, and South America. Small wild and feral breeding populations have established themselves in the United States, particularly in the lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas, as well as in many other parts of North America, including southern Canada. Feral Muscovy Ducks are found in New Zealand, Australia, and in parts of Europe.

Description

Muscovy Ducks are large ducks, with the males about 76 cm long, and the females about 64 cm. The bird is predominantly black and white, with the back feathers being iridescent and glossy in males, while the females are more drab. The amount of white on the neck and head is variable, as well as the bill, which can be yellow, pink, black, or any mixture of these. They may have white patches or bars on the wings, which become more noticeable during flight. Both sexes have pink or red wattles around the bill, those of the male being larger and more brightly colored.

Behavior

The Muscovy Duck is a quiet, generally peaceful bird, although males can be aggressive. It tends to be somewhat solitary or forms small flocks. This duck does not migrate, preferring to stay in the same area year-round. It is a strong flier, especially the wild varieties.

Breeding

Muscovy Ducks breed in woodland habitats along lakes, lagoons, mangrove swamps, marshes, and slow-moving streams, where they nest in tree cavities or on hidden spots on the ground. They lay their eggs in a nest which the female lines with down. The breeding season is variable and may occur in any month of the year, depending on conditions.

Diet

Muscovy Ducks feed on the roots, stems, leaves, and seeds of aquatic and terrestrial plants, including agricultural crops. They also eat small fish, reptiles, crustaceans, insects, millipedes, and other invertebrates.

Domestication

The Muscovy Duck has been domesticated for centuries, and domestic ducks are often kept for their meat, eggs, and feathers. They are also kept as pets and for pest control.

Conservation Status

The wild Muscovy Duck population is widespread and large, and the species is not considered to be threatened. However, habitat loss and hunting can pose a risk to populations in some areas.

See Also

• List of duck breeds
• Waterfowl
• Domesticated duck