Cairina moschata

Description

A large duck which is characterised by long claws on their feet and a wide flat tail. They are white or blackish/ dark greenish, with large white wing patches. Both sexes have a nude black-and-red or all-red face.

Distribution

Native to Mexico, Central and South America - but they originated in Brazil.

Oakvale Distribution Maps png Muschovy Duck
Muscovy Duck Distribution Map

Lifespan

8 - 12 years.

Size

The drake (male) is about 86 cm long and weighs 4.6 - 6.8 kg, while the hen (female) is much smaller, at 64 cm in length and weighs 2.7 - 3.6 kg.

Diet

Plant material obtained by grazing or dabbling in shallow water. Feeding on larvae, aquatic animals, seeds, small fish & snails.

Habitat

Inhabits forested swamps, lakes and streams.

Breeding

Laying a clutch of 8 - 16 eggs, usually in a tree hole or hollow. She will incubate the eggs for approximately 35 days and then stay with the chicks for about 10 - 12 weeks.