Comb Duck
NameComb Duck
Common NameComb Duck
Scientific NameSarkidiornis melanotos
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)130
Length (cm)66
Weight (g)2000
Plumage DetailsMales have iridescent blue-green to bronze-black upperparts, white underparts, and a white head and neck heavily speckled with black. A distinctive large, fleshy, black knob is present on the bill. Females are similar but smaller and lack the prominent knob.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, males may emit a low, guttural croak or honk during courtship, while females produce a soft quack.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, forest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar, and tropical South and Southeast Asia.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Glossy black upperparts with iridescent sheen, White underparts, White head and neck with black speckles, Prominent black fleshy knob on male's bill, Arboreal perching behavior
Description
The Comb Duck is a large, distinctive duck known for its glossy black upperparts and white underparts. Males possess a prominent, fleshy, black knob on their bill, which is less developed in females. These ducks are often found in wetlands, frequently perching in trees.
