Anas rubripes
The American Black Duck, a large dabbling duck of eastern North America, is distinguished by its dark, sooty-brown body plumage that contrasts sharply with its paler, olive-brown to grayish head and neck. Adults typically measure 54-61 cm (21-24 inches) in length with a wingspan of 88-96 cm (35-38 inches), weighing between 1.1-1.6 kg (2.4-3.5 lbs). Key field marks include bright orange-yellow legs and feet, a dark bill (greenish-yellow in males, duller/darker with a black spot on the culmen i...
Primarily inhabits freshwater and brackish wetlands, including coastal marshes, estuaries, beaver ponds, and wooded swamps. Typically found at low elevations, often within or adjacent to forested landscapes.
Omnivorous, primarily consuming aquatic vegetation (seeds, stems, tubers, leaves of grasses, sedges, pondweeds) and a variety of small invertebrates (aquatic insects, snails, mussels, crustaceans). Foraging primarily involves dabbling in shallow water.
Diurnal, American Black Ducks are wary birds that often feed in shallow waters by dabbling or tipping-up, and also graze on terrestrial vegetation. During the breeding season, males defend small territories around nesting sites, which the female selects in dense cover, often near water but someti...
The American Black Duck's breeding range spans from east-central Canada, including Manitoba eastward through Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada to Newfoundland, extending south into the northeastern United States, particularly the Great Lakes region and along the Atlantic coast south to North C...
Near Threatened
- Often called the "Black Mallard" due to its dark plumage and close genetic relationship with the Mallard, leading to frequent hybridization. - Its call is similar to a female Mallard's but is distinctly deeper, less nasal, and often described as more throaty. - Unlike many male dabbling ducks, ...