Muscovy Duck

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The Muscovy Duck is a large, distinctive waterfowl native to Mexico, Central, and South America. It is easily recognized by its bare, warty red or black facial skin and often glossy black plumage, and its unique habit of perching readily in trees.

Where to spot

Native to forested wetlands, swamps, and along slow-moving rivers and lakes across its range from Mexico south to Argentina. Feral and domestic populations are widespread globally in parks, farms, and urban waterways.

How to spot

Look for their large size, dark body, and prominent bare red or black facial caruncles. They often perch on branches over water or forage along muddy banks. Listen for their characteristic hiss rather than a typical quack.

When to spot

Observable year-round in both native and introduced ranges. Dawn and dusk are often good times to see them as they move between roosting and feeding areas.

Where to spot

How to spot

When to spot

Observable year-round in both native and introduced ranges. Dawn and dusk are often good times to see them as they move between roosting and feeding areas.

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

The Muscovy Duck is one of the few duck species that can perch well in trees, often nesting in tree hollows or elevated branches, a behavior more typical of geese or other arboreal birds.

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