Muscovy Duck

Scientific Name
Cairina moschata
Also Known As
Barbary Duck, Muscovy
Range
All of Florida
Diet
Plants, Grasses, Fish
Life Expectancy
5 Years
The Muscovy Duck

Photo 179669392 © dnvarga, CC BY-NC

Muscovy Duck conservation status - Invasive

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American Crows in Central Florida

The muscovy duck (Cairina moschata) is a large waterfowl species that has become established in central Florida. Often seen perching in trees or nesting in urban areas, muscovy ducks stand out from mallards and other wild ducks.

This comprehensive guide provides detailed muscovy duck identification, biology, behavior, health risks, and management methods for central Florida.

Appearance and Identification

Muscovy ducks have distinctive features that aid in identification

Adult Muscovy Duck

Photo 171328192 © gregslak, CC BY-NC

Adult Muscovy Ducks

  • Size: Adults reach up to 33 inches (84 cm) long with a wingspan around 55 inches (140 cm). Males weigh 10 to 15 pounds (4.5 to 6.8 kg) while females reach 7 to 11 pounds (3.2 to 5 kg).
  • Plumage: Mostly blackish plumage with white wing patches. Green and purple iridescence on wings.
  • Face: Bright red caruncles on crown, cheeks, and bill. Black facial skin. Fleshy lobe under bill.
  • Legs: Robust black legs and feet webbed for swimming and perching. Long claws on feet.
Juvenile Muscovy Duck

Photo 197878110 © alexamestre, CC BY-NC

Juvenile Muscovy Ducks

  • Size: Newly hatched muscovy ducklings are around 3 inches (7.5 cm) long and weigh 1.5 to 2 ounces (40 to 55 grams). They reach full size by 10 to 12 weeks old.
  • Plumage: Juvenile plumage is yellowish with dark brown striping down the back. The wings show some green iridescence.
  • Face: Bare facial skin is pinkish in color. Caruncles or fleshy lobes develop on the crown and face.
  • Legs: Thick, black legs with fully webbed feet. Sharp claws on feet.

Muscovy drakes hiss and puff out caruncles when aggressive. The rounded tail and pink bill distinguish them from native ducks.