MUSCOVY DUCKCairina moschata ORDERAnseriformes FAMILYAnatidae HABITAT AND RANGEThey are considered wild in their natural habitat in neo-tropical regions, including Central and South America, with feral populations located across the US and Europe, and Japan. Domestic populations exist worldwide. IDENTIFICATIONThey are mostly brownish black, with iridescent green and purple dorsal plumage, with white wing patches. Their most distinguishing feature is their red fleshy “mask.” Females are 24 inches, and almost 4 pounds, with males being nearly double that, reaching 31 inches, and almost 8 pounds. DIETMuscovy ducks feed on the roots, stems, leaves, and seeds of any type of plant. They will also eat small fish, reptiles, crustaceans, and insects. REPRODUCTION AND LIFESPANMuscovies breed in the wild in Central and South America, and prefer wetland areas, where they will lay 8 eggs, on average, in nest cavities or nest boxes. They generally live for 8-10 years. NOTESMales are known as Drakes, and Females, Hens. Muscovy ducks do not swim much, because they have underdeveloped oil glands, and prefer to roost on branches.
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