The Maccoa Ducks (Oxyura maccoa) are small African stiff-tailed ducks named for their long stiff tail feathers, which are erected when these ducks are at rest.
Distribution / Range
Maccoa Ducks occur in two main areas:
- Eastern Africa from Sudan and Ethiopia to Tanzania and west to eastern parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire); and
- Southern Africa from Zimbabwe to Cape Province, South Africa.
When breeding, they are found in shallow fresh waters. After the breeding season, they may also inhabit brackish and saline lakes.
Description
The Maccoa Ducks measure between 48 – 51 cm in length, including tail.
Adult males have a mostly chestnut plumage, except for a black head. They have blue bills.
Adult females are mostly grey-brown with a dark brown crown, nape and cheek stripe. They have dark grey bills.
More Duck Resources
Diet / Feeding:
Ducks generally feed on larvae and pupae usually found under rocks, aquatic animals, plant material, seeds, small fish, snails and crabs.
