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Nigel Key Maccoa Duck
(Slimbridge June 2009)
The Maccoa Duck is a ‘Stiff-tail’ Duck, which is a diver from Africa.
The Maccoa Duck is shy and when alarmed it tends to dive to safety due to its difficulty in taking flight.
The population of the Maccoa Duck is threatened by pollution, loss of habitat and hunting. They are currently classed as Near threatened and the current population seems to be in decline.
| Hear the Maccoa Duck's Call:- |
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Conservation Status
Size
480mm to 510mm (18" to 20")
Appearance - Male
The male has Chestnut plumage with a Black head, Dark Brown eyes and Blue bill. The tail is Black, underwings are Grey/White, belly and undertail is Whitish. The legs and feet are Grey.
Appearance - Female
The female has Grey Brown plumage with a dark Brown crown, nape, cheek stripe and a Dark Grey bill.
Habitat
Shallow Fresh Water, Saline and Brackish Lakes, wetlands and swamps.
Diet
Aquatic Plants, Seeds and Invertebrates.
Breeding Time
August to January.
Nest
The nest is built from reeds and leaves, or on floating vegetation amongst rushes close to or on the water.
Eggs
Quantity: 4 to 9
Colour: White.
South African Shelduck
