Muscovy
Originating from Brazil,
Muscovies are the only domestic ducks that is not derived from mallard stock.
Wild muscovies coloration is black and white, but domestication has produced
many different colors. These colors are; blue, blue and white, chocolate,
chocolate and white, white, black, black and white, lavender, and calical. The
males can grow to be quite large, weighing 10-15 lbs. Most of the females are
5-7 pounds but can reach up to 9 and sometimes 10 lbs. Their feet are equipt
with strong sharp claws for grabbing tree branches and roosting. Muscovys are
unique because of their bright red crest around their eyes and above the beak.
They do not swim much because their oil glands are under developed compared to
most ducks. Muscovy hens can set three times a year, and the egg clutches can
vary from 8 to 21 eggs. The egg are incubated for 35 days.
Photographs:
Jan Townsend
Robert Hockey
