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.
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.