Domestic Ducks

Anas platyrhynchos domesticus

Stats

Length:

Depends on subspecies.

height:

Weight:

Lifespan:

Sexual Maturity:

Breeding Season:

Gestation Period:

Eats

All ducks, wild and domesticated, are omnivores. They often eat grasses, aquatic plants, insects, worms, and small fish.

Lives

Domestic

Behavior

Ducks are diurnal and love to live in flocks.

Description

Domestic animals are bred for human use, and domestic ducks are typically larger than wild species. Most are descendants of the Mallard Duck, except for the Muscovy Duck, which has red facial markings and originates from Mexico and Argentina. Many Muscovy Ducks are now seen swimming in U.S. ponds and lakes!

Did you Know?

Mill Mountain Zoo is home to many animals who wouldn't survive being released into the wild or are at risk of extinction.

How can I Help?

Because these ducks are domesticated species, they are not listed by the IUCN. However, if you do decide to get a domestic duck, it is important that you do not release them in the wild! These domesticated ducks can interbreed with wild ducks, creating hybridized species. These hybridized ducks are often ill-suited for the wild.

Least Concern

Near Threatened

Vulnerable

Endangered

Critically Endangered

Extinct in the Wild