Spectacled Duck
NameSpectacled Duck
Common NameSpectacled Duck
Scientific NameSpeculanas specularis
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)75
Length (cm)48.5
Weight (g)750
Plumage DetailsOverall dark brown plumage with a scaly pattern on the flanks. The head is dark brown with prominent white patches around the eyes, resembling spectacles, and a white patch on the throat. The speculum (patch on the secondary flight feathers) is iridescent green-blue, bordered by black and white. The bill is bluish-grey with a black tip, and legs and feet are orange-yellow.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a quiet species; males produce soft whistles, while females emit a low, soft quack.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, wetland
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to temperate South America, primarily found in central and southern Chile and southwestern Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesWhite 'spectacles' around the eyes, White throat patch, Dark brown body with scaly flanks, Iridescent green-blue speculum, Orange-yellow legs
Description
The Spectacled Duck is a medium-sized dabbling duck characterized by its dark brown plumage and distinctive white patches around its eyes. It inhabits forested rivers and streams in temperate South America, feeding on aquatic vegetation and invertebrates.
