Masked duck facts for kids
The masked duck (Nomonyx dominicus) is a small stiff-tailed duck that lives in the warm, tropical parts of the Americas. These ducks are known for their unique looks and secretive nature.
Quick facts for kids Masked duck |
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| Genus: |
Nomonyx
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| Species: |
dominicus
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Contents
What is a Masked Duck?
The masked duck is the only species in its group, called Nomonyx. It's like a special link between older types of ducks and the more modern stiff-tailed ducks. Scientists believe it hasn't changed much over millions of years. This makes it a very interesting bird to study!
Where Do Masked Ducks Live?
Masked ducks can be found from southern Texas and Mexico all the way down to South America. They also live in the Caribbean islands.
Their Home Environment
These ducks prefer to live in freshwater areas. They like places with lots of marsh plants and surrounded by thick trees. You can also find them in mangrove swamps. They usually do not migrate, meaning they stay in the same area year-round.
Rare Sightings in the U.S.
Sometimes, masked ducks are seen in the southernmost parts of the United States. This happens along the Mexican border and in Florida. For example, one was photographed in Lowndes County, Georgia, in 1962. In Texas, about 3,800 masked ducks were counted in the year 2000.
How to Identify a Masked Duck?
Masked ducks have different looks depending on their age and gender.
Adult Males
When adult males are ready to breed, they have a beautiful rust-colored body. Their face is black, and their wings have a mottled, or spotted, pattern.
Females and Young Ducks
Adult females, males in winter, and young ducks look a bit different. They have a brownish-gray body with stripes. Their buff-colored face has two dark stripes running across it.
What Do Masked Ducks Eat?
Masked ducks mostly eat parts of water plants. This includes their seeds, roots, stems, and leaves. They also enjoy eating small water insects and crustaceans, like tiny crabs or shrimp.
How They Find Food
These ducks find their food by diving underwater. They are usually very shy and like to stay hidden. Even though they are secretive, they are not rare. The IUCN does not consider them to be in danger.
