White Muscovy Ducks
by Elizabeth Winter
Title
White Muscovy Ducks
Artist
Elizabeth Winter
Medium
Photograph - Photography
Description
The Muscovy Duck (Cairina moschata) - also known as Musky Duck or Barbary Duck - is a large, hardy perching duck that has been attracting a lot of attention in recent years - particularly in North America, where it has been expanding its range in the last decade.
In their natural range of South America, they are often referred to as "Musco ducks" as they eat many mosquitos.
On the Avianweb, the Muscovy generated many more inquiries and comments than any other duck or goose species - about at a ratio of 1 : 10. Most people are simply curious about them; some dislike them for their messiness, aggression and odd appearance, while others appreciate them for their intelligence, friendly and trusting personality and their distinctive appearance. For these reason alone, Muscovies are increasingly kept as backyard pets and even exhibition birds.
The origin of the Muscovy's name is unknown. It is not from Moscow; and even though it is commercially known as "Barbary Duck," it is also not native to Barbary.
Many believe that Muscovies are more geese than ducks - in fact, often they are referred to as "Muscovie Geese" for the following reasons:
Muscovy ducks don't quack as is typical of other Index of Duck Species and are generally quiet.
Their eggs take longer to hatch than other duck eggs—35 days. Unlike all other breeds of ducks, which brood the eggs only for about 28 days.
All domesticated ducks originate from the Mallard, with the exception of the Muscovy which has distinct origins in South America
Uploaded
May 2nd, 2015
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Comments (30)
Sue Smith
Very interesting ducks! Nice capture Elizabeth! L/F
Elizabeth Winter replied:
They are different. They migrate thru one of our parks and we always look for them! Thanks Sue
Gabriella Weninger - David
Wow... I have never seen such pretty ducks... GORGEOUS Image and awesome capture Elizabeth!
Deb Halloran
What a beautiful capture, Elizabeth. Excellent composition with beautiful colors, textures, light and detail. Nicely done. v/f
Sandi OReilly
Super capture of these unusual ducks as I have not seen them in person, so a treat, Elizabeth, well done!!! F/L