Maccoa Duck
Maccoa Duck
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The Maccoa Duck is a compact, stiff-tailed diving duck native to Africa, known for its distinctive tail that is often held erect. Males are striking with their deep chestnut plumage, black head, and vibrant blue bill during the breeding season.
Where to spot
Found in scattered populations across eastern and southern Africa, including Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, and parts of the Sahel. They prefer permanent freshwater lakes, reservoirs, and marshes with ample emergent vegetation.
How to spot
Look for a small, compact duck that sits low in the water with its stiff tail often cocked upwards. Males are unmistakable with their black head and bright blue bill. Females are duller brown but still show the characteristic stiff tail. They are typically seen diving for food.
When to spot
Year-round in its range. Breeding activity and displays are most prominent during the local summer months (e.g., October-March in Southern Africa), when males are in their brightest breeding plumage.
Where to spot
Found in scattered populations across eastern and southern Africa, including Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, and parts of the Sahel. They prefer permanent freshwater lakes, reservoirs, and marshes with ample emergent vegetation.
How to spot
Look for a small, compact duck that sits low in the water with its stiff tail often cocked upwards. Males are unmistakable with their black head and bright blue bill. Females are duller brown but still show the characteristic stiff tail. They are typically seen diving for food.
When to spot
Year-round in its range. Breeding activity and displays are most prominent during the local summer months (e.g., October-March in Southern Africa), when males are in their brightest breeding plumage.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Maccoa Ducks are highly adapted to aquatic life and rarely come ashore. Their stiff tail feathers act like a rudder, assisting their agile underwater movements.
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