 | ||||||||||||||||
  |
| |||||||||||||||
Muscovy Duck - Cairina moschata | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
First year: 1967 Extirpated year: Established status: Populations are confirmed breeding and apparently self-sustaining for 10 or more consecutive years. Estimated Florida range: 67 counties At least 10 years Statewide trend: Expanding Threats to natives: They may breed with domestic mallards and impact the nesting success of native waterfowl. Species Account: Muscovy Ducks are native to Central and South America, but the feral form in Florida is a heavier bodied, domesticated duck. Domestic birds brought into Florida have escaped or been released and subsequently formed feral populations in close association with humans. The initial introduction date into Florida is unknown, but escapes and releases have been numerous and are still continuing. Muscovy Ducks can be a nuisance to landowners because of their droppings and aggressive behavior. They feed on aquatic plants, grasses, seeds, insects (Johnsgard 1978), and human handouts. They breed in urban and suburban lakes and on farms throughout Florida. Habitats: Central or core urban area, Lake, Low density suburban development, areas peripheral to core urban areas, and small towns Click here for description of the regions
References James, F. C. 1997. Nonindigenous Birds. Pages 139-156 In Strangers Among Us: Impact and management of nonindigenous species in Florida. (Simberloff,D., D. Schmitz, and E. Wilson, eds.) Island Press, Washington D.C. Johnsgard, P. A. 1978. Ducks, geese, and swans of the world. University of Nebraska Press, Lincoln, Nebraska. Links to more information |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Our mission: Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.
|
|
