Anatidae
anseriformes
Birds
Incubation approximately 35 days
8–16 eggs
There are domestic populations monitored in zoos and rural farms.
It feeds on seeds, roots, stems, insects, crustaceans, small fish, amphibians, reptiles, and mollusks. In water, it removes sediment to filter out invertebrates; as a domestic animal, it includes grains and forage.
In the wild: Approx. 7–10 years, no official data for wild In captivity: Up to 15–20 years with appropriate care
The Muscovy duck is a robust species of duck, notable for its unmistakable appearance: a bulky body, straight beak, strong legs adapted for walking and swimming, and bare, warty red skin on the male's face. The plumage is mostly black with green or purple metallic highlights, and white markings on the wings. This species displays marked sexual dimorphism: males are much larger and have more prominent facial caruncles. It adapts well to humid habitats, but also inhabits rural and urban areas where there are bodies of water. Its physiology is efficient: its metabolism allows it to take advantage of an omnivorous diet and survive in human-modified environments. It has remarkable heat tolerance and is capable of nesting in trees, hollow logs, and cavities, demonstrating remarkable ecological flexibility. Its domestication has given rise to genetic lines selected for docility, size, and meat production.
The Muscovy duck is a primarily terrestrial and diurnal bird, usually moving in pairs or small family groups. It is not migratory, although in the wild it may make local movements. Unlike other ducks, it is silent: males do not squawk, but instead whistle, pant, or snort to communicate or scare away birds. Females make soft guttural sounds to call their young. During the breeding season, males become more territorial, displaying courtship rituals that include head movements, feather vibrations, and wing flapping. They nest in elevated locations, which protects them from terrestrial predators. During the day, they alternate bathing, feeding, and resting. They are intelligent and alert birds, capable of recognizing people or daily routines. Their behavior in captivity varies depending on socialization and handling. Although they are generally peaceful, males can be dominant toward other ducks or smaller birds.
The Muscovy duck is classified by the IUCN as a species of "Least Concern" due to its wide distribution, ecological tolerance, and stable populations in both wild and domestic habitats. In its native range, from Mexico to northern Argentina, it is found in natural habitats and rural areas. In contrast, introduced populations (USA, Europe, Pacific islands) can behave as invasive species, generating competition with native ducks and even hybridization with the mallard (Anas platyrhynchos). Although it is not included in international controlled breeding programs, its breeding is common in rural communities for its meat and docile behavior. In urban areas and parks, its presence can increase due to uncontrolled feeding and lack of population management. It is not listed in CITES except in Appendix III for India. The main threats to wild populations are the loss of riparian habitat and the pollution of water bodies.
The name “mute duck” comes from its poor vocalization: males barely make any sounds, unlike other ducks.
It was domesticated by indigenous peoples of Central America before the arrival of Europeans.
Its meat is less fatty than that of the common duck, with a texture similar to that of veal.
In many rural cultures, it is valued for its hardiness: it tolerates warm climates, diseases, and a varied diet.
Males can weigh more than 6 kg, making them one of the largest domestic ducks.
It has sharp toenails and strong legs, allowing it to climb and rest in trees.
It can nest in cavities up to 5 meters high, something unusual among ducks.
Unlike the common domestic duck, it does not require large areas of water to live.
It can be found in urban parks where it has been introduced, and in some places it is considered a pest.
Their caruncles (red warts on the face) are more developed in males and may change color due to stress or courtship.
Despite its appearance, it can fly and escape from uncovered enclosures.
It is known for its maternal abilities: females are very protective of their young.
In some countries it is crossed with domestic ducks (Peking duck) to obtain sterile hybrids called “moulards”.
The plumage color varies by domestication: there are white, mottled, and completely black varieties.
Its presence has been documented as invasive on Caribbean islands and in protected areas of Florida.
In Latin American folk medicine, its feathers or eggs have had ritual or curative uses.
It is one of the few ducks with frequent arboreal habits.
