Anas fulvigula
The Mottled Duck (Anas fulvigula) is a medium-sized dabbling duck, measuring 20-23 inches (50-58 cm) in length with a wingspan of 33-36 inches (84-91 cm) and weighing between 1.6-2.5 lbs (720-1130 g). It sports a generally dark brown body with a noticeably paler, buff-colored head and neck, often appearing somewhat mottled, giving it its name. Key identification marks include a bright orange bill (often with a dark spot at the gape, especially in males) and a striking iridescent speculum (inn...
Primarily inhabits freshwater and brackish wetlands, including coastal marshes, swamps, estuaries, and agricultural wetlands like rice fields. Found almost exclusively at low elevations, typically near sea level.
Feeds predominantly on seeds and vegetative parts of aquatic plants, supplemented with a significant proportion of aquatic invertebrates such as insects, crustaceans, and mollusks. Forages primarily by dabbling and grazing.
Mottled Ducks are largely diurnal, actively foraging during the day and roosting in sheltered vegetation at night. They are classic dabblers, often seen head-dipping, up-ending in shallow water, or grazing on emergent vegetation along shorelines. During the breeding season, males exhibit territor...
The Mottled Duck's geographic distribution is restricted to the southeastern United States and parts of the Caribbean. The species is largely resident, exhibiting limited dispersal from its natal areas. Two subspecies are recognized: the Florida Mottled Duck (*Anas fulvigula fulvigula*), primaril...
Least Concern
- The Mottled Duck is one of the few duck species in North America that is largely non-migratory across its entire range. - Its iridescent speculum, visible in flight, can shift in color from purplish-blue to green depending on the angle of light. - This species is known to hybridize with Mallard...