Muscovy

Basic stats

Clutch size: 8 – 16

Scientific name: Cairina moschata

Higher classification: Cairina

Wingspan: 1.4 – 1.5 m (Adult, In the wild)

Mass:

Male: 4.6 – 6.8 kg (Adult, Domestic)

Female: 2.7 – 3.6 kg (Adult, Domestic)

Length:

Male: 76 cm (Adult)

Female: 64 cm (Adult, Domestic)

Colours

Muscovy ducks are recognized in Black, Blue, White and Chocolate. All other colors originate from one of these and are not yet recognized in most shows.

The Muscovy breed can hold many genes which results in gorgeous colors in some offspring.

mating

Males reach sexual maturity in 29 weeks, and the female matures in 28 weeks.

The mating season of the Muscovy can last from August to May, however this varies on the climate.

There really isn’t any courtship ritual except for lots of tail wagging and erecting the head crest.

A male may help with guarding the nest and ducklings.

It is not uncommon for female Muscovies to set their nest in a large cavity of a tree unless you have a secure ready-made nest box.

A clutch of eggs can be up to 16+ eggs.

She will then carefully incubate (sit on) her eggs for 35 days until they hatch. Often you can get a few females brooding together, sharing brooding duties.

Ducklings stay close by Mama for 10-12 weeks to keep warm and to stay safe. During this time, they will be learning all the skills needed to survive.

Additional links

Here are some extra links to learn a little more about this breed.