The American black duck is a large dabbling duck in the family Anatidae. It was described by William Brewster in 1902. It is the heaviest species in the genus Anas, weighing 720–1,640 g (1.6–3.6 lb) on average and measuring 54–59 cm (21–23 in) in length with an 88–95 cm (35–37 in) wingspan. It somewhat resembles the female and eclipse male mallard in coloration, but has a darker plumage. The male and female are generally similar in appearance, but the male's bill is yellow while the female's is dull green with dark marks on the upper mandible. It is native to eastern North America. During the breeding season, it is usually found in coastal and freshwater wetlands from Saskatchewan to the Atlantic in Canada and the Great Lakes and the Adirondacks in the United States. It is a partially migratory species, mostly wintering in the east-central United States, especially in coastal areas.
Region
Eastern North America
Typical Environment
Breeds from the Great Lakes and northeastern United States through Atlantic Canada, using wooded swamps, beaver ponds, bogs, and freshwater marshes. In winter it concentrates along the Atlantic Coast and east-central United States, frequenting tidal marshes, estuaries, and sheltered bays. It also uses inland rivers, reservoirs, and agricultural fields, especially where shallow water and abundant cover are available. The species tolerates brackish conditions and often forages on tidal flats at low tide.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The American black duck frequently hybridizes with mallards, which raises concerns about genetic introgression in some regions. It is among the heaviest dabbling ducks and is superficially similar to a female mallard but darker overall. Males typically have a yellow bill, while females show a dull green bill with dark mottling. It favors coastal marshes in winter and freshwater wetlands during the breeding season.
Male with a yellow beak and showing speculum
Female with a dull green beak
Anas rubripes female, Hudson River, New Jersey, USA
A female American black duck (top left) and a male mallard (bottom right) in eclipse plumage
An adult American Black duck with four ducklings.
Chart showing differences between the American black duck and the female mallard
A Snowy Owl takes an adult American Black Duck, Maine, USA.
Temperament
wary but moderately social
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Forms pairs in late winter and nests on the ground, often concealed in dense vegetation near water. Clutches are typically 7–12 eggs, and females provide most incubation and brood care. Outside the breeding season it gathers in loose flocks, especially in coastal wetlands and larger marshes.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Females give a loud, classic mallard-like quack in series. Males produce softer, raspier notes and grunts, especially during courtship. Vocal activity increases in the breeding season and at dawn and dusk.
