Taxonomic Classification

 

Black Duck

Common Name: Black Duck or American Black Duck

Scientific Name:  Anas rubripes

Physical Characteristics:  The black duck has a length of 16 inches and a wingspan of 36 inches.  It is a large dabbling duck with a light gray colored face.  It has a dark brown cap and eye line.

The adult male has a greenish to yellow color bill and its legs are bright red.

The adult female has a green bill with black patches and its legs are more of an orange color than a red color. (3)

Habitat:  The black duck prefers to be near an agricultural field and live in areas that are marshy.  They prefer a wooded area as opposed to more open places.  Their nesting preferences are holes in trees, old bird nests.  Their nest are either close to the water or up to 1/2 miles away. (4)

Diet:  Mainly aquatic invertebrates but can include upland grasses and crops.  (4)

 

Source: (2)  Click