Anas wyvilliana
The Hawaiian Duck, or Koloa Maoli, is a medium-sized dabbling duck endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, measuring approximately 40-50 cm (16-20 inches) in length with a wingspan of 70-80 cm (28-31 inches). Its plumage is predominantly mottled brown, giving it a somewhat unassuming appearance, but it is distinctly marked by a prominent iridescent green-blue speculum on its wings and bright orange legs and feet. Unlike its close relative, the Mallard, males lack the distinctive green head and white...
Found in a variety of freshwater wetland habitats, including marshes, taro patches, irrigation ditches, slow-moving streams, and upland pools, from sea level to mid-elevations.
Primarily omnivorous, feeding on aquatic invertebrates (insects, crustaceans, larvae), seeds, and various parts of aquatic vegetation. Foraging is mainly done by dabbling in shallow water or grazing on land.
Primarily diurnal, Hawaiian Ducks actively forage during the day and typically roost on sheltered banks or dense vegetation near water. They are classic dabbling ducks, tipping their bodies in shallow water to reach submerged food, filter-feeding at the surface, and grazing on emergent vegetation...
The Hawaiian Duck is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. Historically, its range encompassed all the main Hawaiian Islands, with the possible exceptions of Lana'i and Kaho'olawe. Today, the most robust and genetically pure populations are found on Kaua'i and Ni'ihau, with another significant populat...
Endangered
- The Hawaiian Duck, or Koloa Maoli, is believed to have descended from vagrant Mallards that colonized the islands thousands of years ago, adapting to the unique island environment. - Its closest living relative is the critically endangered Laysan Duck, highlighting a shared evolutionary lineage...