Muscovy Duck
Cairina moschata
pato real
Voice: Muscovy Ducks are rarely heard; female gives a soft quack and male occasionally hisses.
Status: Rare and local in the western Valley along the Rio Grande, primarily in the stretch of river from about Santa Margarita Ranch to Falcon Dam. Occasionally found as far west as San Ygnacio and very rare east to Santa Ana NWR. Although birds can be found year-round, the best months are from April through November.
Habitat: Narrow stretch of riparian corridor along the Rio Grande. Prefer sheltered water with trees.
Best Spots: Most often seen flying up and down river at Santa Margarita Ranch, Saliñeno, Chapeno, and woodlands below Falcon Dam. Occasionally seen perched in tall shade trees along the Rio Grande.
Similar Species: Wild Muscovy Ducks are overall dark (with greenish gloss on back and secondary flight feathers) and conspicuous white wing coverts on upperwing and underwing. The domestic Muscovy is well established in urban areas throughout the Valley. Although a small percentage of these domestic birds superficially resemble wild Muscovy Ducks, most show patches of white on head and body and have a redder face. These birds are usually heavier as well.
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