Anas melleri
The Meller's Duck (*Anas melleri*) is a fascinating, uniformly dull brown dabbling duck, measuring approximately 55-65 cm (22-26 in) in length and weighing between 700-1100 g (1.5-2.4 lbs). Its most distinctive field marks include a dark crown and hindneck contrasting with a paler face, a bright yellowish-green bill tipped with a dark nail, and a prominent iridescent green speculum, often bordered by a narrow white band, visible in flight or at rest. Taxonomically, it belongs to the *Anas* ge...
Found in freshwater wetlands, including slow-moving rivers, swamps, lakes, and ponds, especially those with dense emergent vegetation for cover. It inhabits areas from sea level up to approximately 2000 meters in elevation.
Primarily omnivorous, Meller's Ducks feed on a mix of aquatic invertebrates (insects, larvae, mollusks, crustaceans) and plant material, including seeds, leaves, and stems of aquatic vegetation, obtained by dabbling and up-ending in shallow water.
Meller's Ducks are exceptionally shy and reclusive, often observed as solitary individuals or in pairs and small family groups. They are primarily diurnal, though their secretive nature means they spend much of the day hidden within dense vegetation, emerging more openly at dawn and dusk. Foragin...
The Meller's Duck is endemic to Madagascar, where its range is now fragmented and largely restricted to the central and eastern wetlands. Historically more widespread, its populations have suffered significant declines and range contraction due to habitat loss and degradation. A small, self-susta...
Endangered
- The Meller's Duck is named after Charles Meller, an English naturalist who collected the first specimens in Madagascar in the mid-19th century. - It is considered a 'relict' species, meaning it represents an ancient lineage that has persisted in its native range, making it a living relic of duc...