Step into the world of our muscovy ducks and unlock the wonders of these extraordinary creatures
"Muscovy" is an old name for the region of Russia surrounding Moscow, but these dusk are neither native to that area, nor were they introduced there before they became known in Western Europe. It could have been named after the company that imported them into Europe in the fifteenth century, or possibly just named after a place considered "exotic" by Europeans at the time.
Muscovy ducks had been domesticated in South America before Europeans arrived. They spread across the world as an imported domestic species.
In New Zealand, most "wild" Muscovy ducks originated as domestic birds, and so they are often not very shy of humans. There are some small feral populations in NZ.
They are capable flyers, but are reluctant to do so. Their long claws assist with perching in trees. They do not form large flocks.
Quick facts
Distribution:
Native to Mexico, and Central and South America
Habitat:
Forested swamps, lakes and streams, coastal and lowlands
Conservation Status:
Least Concern