Muscovy Duck

The Muscovy duck, Cairina moschata, is a unique and fascinating breed known for its striking appearance and distinctive characteristics. Unlike most domestic ducks, Muscovy ducks are not true ducks but rather belong to the family Anatidae, which also includes geese and swans. They are recognized for their adaptability and are often found in various habitats across the Americas, especially in Central and South America, as well as in the southern United States.

Physical Characteristics
  • Bill: Broad and flat, usually pale or yellowish.
  • Coloration: Plumage varies widely, but males typically have glossy green and black feathers, while females are usually more muted in color.
  • Robust and muscular body, with males generally larger than females

BREED & ORIGIN

Muscovy Duck & Central and South America; domesticated from wild ancestors

LIFE EXPECTANCY

5-15 years

HEIGHT & WEIGHT

Males (Drakes): 8-15 lbs (3.6-6.8 kg)
Females (Hens): 6-10 lbs (2.7-4.5 kg)

Muscovy ducks are one of the few duck species that don’t quack—they make a variety of soft, cooing sounds instead!
Life stages of a DUCK

Duckling: 0-6 weeks

Juvenile: 6-16 weeks

Adult: 16+ weeks

Breed Traits and Characteristics

LOW

MEDIUM

HIGH

Temperament

Generally calm and sociable, but males can be territorial during breeding season.

Activity Level

Moderate; they enjoy foraging and exploring.

Climate Tolerance

Adaptable; can thrive in various climates.

Genetic Traits

Red, warty facial skin (caruncles), glossy black or white feathers, and larger, heavier builds.

Egg Laying Capacity

Moderate; 80-120 eggs per year

Broodiness

Moderate, females typically incubate eggs and care for young

What Are the Care and Maintenance Needs of Muscovy Duck?

Feeding

Muscovy ducks eat a mix of grains, seeds, greens, and insects. A balanced duck feed with occasional treats like leafy greens or mealworms will keep them well-nourished. Access to clean, fresh water is vital, as they love to dunk their food!

Housing

Muscovy ducks need a secure, predator-proof shelter with good ventilation and dry bedding. They appreciate a spacious area to roam, as they enjoy foraging and grazing.

Health

They’re generally hardy, but it’s essential to keep their environment clean to prevent infections. Regular check-ups for parasites and any signs of illness help keep them healthy.

How to Breed and Raise Muscovy Duck?

Breeding Practices
Muscovy ducks are monogamous during the breeding season, with females laying between 6 to 15 eggs per clutch, which take about 35 days to incubate. Providing a secluded, safe nesting area is crucial during this time.
Once hatched, ducklings are precocial, meaning they can walk, swim, and forage almost immediately but still need warmth and protection. A sheltered area with clean water and a nutritious diet, such as chick starter feed and greens, is essential for their growth.Close monitoring of their health helps prevent diseases, as good hygiene is vital for their well-being

Nutritional Needs
Balanced nutrition with ample protein, especially during the laying season, is essential for sustaining their high egg output.

Flygrubs provide essential protein and calcium, supporting egg production. It complement their diet, providing high protein, healthy fats, calcium, and phosphorus and can be integrated into the diet from ducklings to adulthood. Easy to incorporate, can be fed
dried or rehydrated.

What is the Economic and Cultural Impact of Muscovy Duck?

Muscovy ducks have economic value for their lean meat and pest control benefits, while culturally, they are important in rural communities for sustainable farming and as symbols of self-sufficiency.

Category

Details

Breed

Muscovy Duck

Origin

Central and South America

Temperament

Calm, sociable, occasionally territorial

Comb Type

None

Commercial Use

Meat production, pest control

Climate Tolerance

Highly adaptable to various climates

Feeding

Omnivorous: grains, insects, plants

Fertility Rates

High, common in both wild and domesticated settings

Backyard Use

Suitable for those with ample outdoor space

Egg Laying

Moderate; 80-120 eggs per year

Housing Requirements

Needs outdoor space with shelter

Activity Level

Moderate; enjoys foraging

Muscovy ducks are generally not considered aggressive. While males may display territorial behavior, especially during mating season, they can be quite friendly, especially if raised around humans from a young age. Proper socialization helps reduce aggressive tendencies.