Meller's Duck
NameMeller's Duck
Common NameMeller's Duck
Scientific NameAnas melleri
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)70
Length (cm)65
Weight (g)1000
Plumage DetailsOverall dark brown plumage with pale buff feather edgings giving a mottled appearance. The head and neck are darker, often appearing plain brown. A distinctive bright green speculum is visible on the secondary flight feathers, bordered by black. The bill is greyish-green with a black tip, and the legs and feet are orange-brown.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a quiet species. Females produce a series of soft quacks, while males have a softer, rasping call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, forest
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to eastern Madagascar, with a small introduced population on Mauritius.
Identifying FeaturesDark brown mottled plumage, Bright green speculum bordered by black, Greyish-green bill with black tip, Orange-brown legs and feet, Large size for a dabbling duck
Description
Meller's Duck is a large, dark-bodied dabbling duck endemic to Madagascar. It is a shy and secretive species, typically found in pairs or small groups in freshwater habitats. They feed by dabbling and up-ending in shallow water.
