American Black Duck

Description: American black ducks are similar in appearance to mallard hens, although they are considerably darker. Their overall color is brownish-black with lighter coloring on their heads and necks and dark streaks running through their eyes. They have reddish-orange legs and feet. In flight, they can look black. Drakes and hens are similar, though drakes have yellow bills while hens have olive bills. The speculums of both hens and drakes are violet bordered in black. Drakes are slightly larger than hens. Average size: 19-24 inches. Average weight: 2-3 ½ pounds.

Science: American black ducks breed in the northern United States east from Minnesota and in the eastern part of Canada, using brushy cover near marshes. They begin migrating in late September and winter along the Atlantic coast south from Maine, where they can be found in coastal bays, marshes, and open rivers and lakes, in both fresh and salt water. They eat a wide range of foods, such as aquatic plants, grains, acorns, and even crustaceans. Like mallards, they form large flocks; their call is also similar to the mallard call. Their population is declining. Some scientist feel the species is being replaced by mallards, as interbreeding depletes the black duck gene pool.

Hunting: American black ducks are hunted in and around estuaries, bays, and rivers. Hunting techniques include pass-shooting and the use of blinds, decoys, and calls. Birds are often wary and thus are less likely to respond to decoys. The eating quality is excellent.