Maccoa Duck
NameMaccoa Duck
Common NameMaccoa Duck
Scientific NameOxyura maccoa
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)60
Length (cm)49.5
Weight (g)700
Plumage DetailsBreeding males have a glossy black head and neck, a striking sky-blue bill, and a rich chestnut-red body with a blackish tail. Females and non-breeding males are duller, with a dark brown cap, a pale cheek patch bisected by a dark stripe, and a greyish bill.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a silent species. Males may produce soft grunts or whistles during courtship displays.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeFound in disjunct populations across southern and eastern Africa, including South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Angola, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Ethiopia.
Identifying FeaturesStiff, erect tail often held cocked, Bright blue bill (breeding male), Glossy black head (breeding male), Chestnut-red body (breeding male), Diving behavior
Description
The Maccoa Duck is a small, stiff-tailed diving duck found in southern and eastern Africa. Breeding males are distinctive with a glossy black head, bright blue bill, and rich chestnut body. They are typically found on freshwater wetlands.
