Biziura lobata
The Musk Duck (*Biziura lobata*) is a highly distinctive and ancient member of the waterfowl family, endemic to southern Australia. Males are notably larger than females, measuring 60-74 cm (23.5-29 inches) and weighing 1.8-3.1 kg (4-6.8 lbs), compared to females at 47-55 cm (18.5-21.5 inches) and 0.9-1.9 kg (2-4.2 lbs). Both sexes sport a drab, dark brown-grey plumage with fine barring, but the male is instantly recognizable by the large, pendulous, leathery lobe under his bill, which can ex...
Musk Ducks primarily inhabit deep, permanent freshwater wetlands, including swamps, lakes, and reservoirs, often with dense emergent vegetation for cover. They prefer waters over 2 meters deep, rarely venturing onto land.
Their diet consists mainly of aquatic invertebrates such as insects, crustaceans, and mollusks, supplemented by small fish, frogs, and some aquatic plant matter, all obtained by deep diving.
Musk Ducks are largely nocturnal and highly aquatic, rarely seen out of water or flying, preferring to remain submerged or hidden in dense vegetation. Foraging is conducted through deep diving, where they propel themselves using their large feet to hunt benthic invertebrates, small fish, and amph...
The Musk Duck is endemic to the southern regions of Australia and Tasmania, where it is a resident species year-round. Its primary distribution includes southwestern Western Australia, southeastern South Australia, the majority of Victoria, and significant areas of New South Wales, particularly w...
Least Concern
- The name "Musk Duck" refers to a musky odor sometimes emitted by the male during the breeding season, though its exact purpose and presence are debated by some. - Male Musk Ducks possess the largest and most prominent inflatable bill lobe among all duck species, which is crucial for amplifying ...