American black duck

Anas rubripes

The American black duck (Anas rubripes) is a large dabbling duck in the family Anatidae.

Family: Anatidae Order: Anseriformes Conservation: Least Concern
American black duck

About the American black duck

The American black duck (Anas rubripes) 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

Fun Facts About American black duck

  • 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.
  • Incubation usually takes 25 to 26 days, with both sexes sharing duties, although the male usually defends the territory until the female reaches the middle of her incubation period.
  • The United States Fish and Wildlife Service has been purchasing and managing the habitat of this species in many areas to support the migratory stopover, wintering and breeding populations.
  • The Atlantic Coast Joint Venture also protects habitat through restoration and land acquisition projects, mostly within their wintering and breeding areas.
  • It was described by William Brewster in 1902.

Conservation Status

The American black duck is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. This species is currently stable and not at significant risk of population decline.

View on IUCN Red List →

Taxonomy & Classification

OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusAnas
SpeciesAnas rubripes

Range & Habitat

Range map of American black duck

🛍️ American black duck Gifts & Merch

Show your love for american black ducks! Find t-shirts, hoodies, stickers, mugs, and more at our store.

Browse American black duck Merch →

Related Species

Other species in the Anatidae family: