The world of ducks encompasses a wide array of species. Their diversity is remarkable across various aquatic environments. A common point of interest among these many species is their size, prompting curiosity about which duck stands out as the largest.
The Muscovy Duck
The largest duck species in the world is the Muscovy duck, scientifically known as Cairina moschata. These ducks are native to the Americas, ranging from Texas south to Argentina and Uruguay. Male Muscovy ducks are significantly larger than females. Males measure 76–84 cm (30–33 in) in length and can weigh between 3–4 kg (6.6–8.8 lb), with some domestic individuals reaching up to 10 kg (22 lb). Females are smaller, 71–76 cm (28–30 in) long and weighing around 1.25 kg (2.8 lb), roughly half the weight of males.
Distinctive Traits and Range
Muscovy ducks possess several distinctive physical traits, including prominent red, fleshy growths around their eyes and bill, known as caruncles. These caruncles are more pronounced and brightly colored in males. Their plumage is predominantly black with large white patches on the wings, which become more noticeable during flight. The back and wing feathers of males display an iridescent, glossy sheen. Muscovy ducks have a broad, flat tail and long claws on their feet, which assist them in perching.
Their wingspan ranges from 137 to 152 cm (54 to 60 in), allowing for strong flight. Wild Muscovy ducks typically inhabit forested swamps, lakes, streams, and nearby grasslands. They are non-migratory and spend their days foraging by grazing on plant material or dabbling in shallow water.
Their diet is omnivorous, consisting of various plants, small fish, amphibians, reptiles, crustaceans, spiders, insects, and worms. These ducks often roost in trees at night, utilizing their unique foot structure.
Other Notable Large Ducks
While the Muscovy duck holds the title for the largest, several other duck species are notable for their size. The Common Eider (Somateria mollissima) is recognized as the largest duck in the Northern Hemisphere. It measures 50–71 cm (20–28 in) in length and weighs between 1.3–2.6 kg (2.8–5.9 lb). Common Eiders are heavy-bodied sea ducks with a distinctive wedge-shaped bill.
Another large domesticated duck is the Pekin duck, which can weigh between 3.6–5 kg (8–11 lb), with some Jumbo Pekin varieties reaching up to 5.4 kg (12 lb). These ducks are widely recognized by their pure white feathers and orange bills.
The Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) has males typically measuring 60–70 cm (23–28 in) in length and weighing around 0.9–2.1 kg (2–4.6 lb). These ducks have a sleek appearance with a long, narrow bill adapted for catching fish.