Muscovey Duck

Scientific Name

Cairina moschata

size

Weight. males 7.8-8.9 lbs. " females 3.9-4.4 lbs.

characteristics

Adaptations/Coloration. domestication has resulted in white, pale ash, gray, & barred
Body. brown-black
Claws. strong pointed to perch in trees
Voice. no vocal cords " don't quack - instead a hissing sound
Wings. metallic green " males have red fleshy knob above bill

behavior

gait-limping effect " nod head every 2nd step

reproduction/life span

Breeding. several times a year
Chicks. little pointed claws " long stiffened tail feathers
Parental Care. good

diet

Wild. grains, grasses, & insects
Zoo. game bird & 4-grain scratch & lettuce

habitat/range

wooded habitat " South America

other

domesticated by South American Indians before arrival of Europeans

oregon zoo exhibit

Education Programs