Tachyeres pteneres
The Fuegian Steamer Duck, or Magellanic Flightless Steamer Duck, is a large, heavy-bodied waterfowl endemic to the rugged coasts of southern South America. Males typically measure 74-84 cm (29-33 in) and can weigh up to 6 kg (13 lbs), while females are smaller at 70-80 cm (28-31 in) and around 4 kg (8.8 lbs). Their most distinctive field mark is their complete flightlessness, a trait shared with three of the four Steamer Duck species, compelling them to 'steam' across the water surface with p...
Exclusively marine, inhabiting rocky coastlines, sheltered bays, estuaries, fjords, and kelp beds, typically at sea level.
Primarily carnivorous, feeding on marine invertebrates such as mussels, limpets, crabs, and other crustaceans, as well as small fish obtained by diving.
Fuegian Steamer Ducks are highly diurnal, spending their days foraging in coastal waters and roosting on rocky shores or small islets. Their foraging strategy involves powerful pursuit diving, often reaching depths of 5 meters and staying submerged for 30-60 seconds, using their large webbed feet...
The Fuegian Steamer Duck is an obligate resident of the coastal waters of southernmost South America. Its distribution extends along the rocky shores of southern Chile, including the extensive fjords and channels, eastward across Tierra del Fuego, and along the Atlantic coast of Argentina north t...
Least Concern
- Despite being a 'duck', the Fuegian Steamer Duck is completely flightless, its wings being too small and stiff for aerial locomotion. - Its common name 'steamer duck' comes from its unique method of propulsion across the water, running rapidly and flapping its small wings like paddlewheels, cre...