Mottled Duck
Anas fulvigula
Also known as: Dusky Duck, Florida Duck
About This Species
A dabbling duck of coastal marshes, ponds, and wetland edges in the southeastern United States, usually seen swimming in pairs or small groups and tipping forward to feed on aquatic vegetation and invertebrates. Its mottled brown plumage and lack of obvious sexual dimorphism distinguish it from similar dabbling ducks. Best looked for in quiet freshwater or brackish wetlands during the cooler months, when birds are most concentrated and visible.
Ethical Viewing Guidelines
- Keep well back from nesting or brooding females, since this species nests on the ground in marsh vegetation and is easily flushed, which exposes eggs or ducklings to predators and heat.
- It is protected under migratory bird law in the United States, which prohibits killing, capturing, or disturbing nests without a permit.
- Because the species has a naturally limited range and hybridizes readily with feral Mallards, avoid any activity, including feeding, that might draw birds into contact with domestic waterfowl.
LCAvesAnseriformesAnatidae
Seasonal Activity
591,591 sightings · 2000–2026
Citizen science records via GBIF
All monthsThis month
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Aves
- Order
- Anseriformes
- Family
- Anatidae
Photo
no rights reserved, uploaded by Andy Wilson
CC0-1.0
Occurrence data from GBIF.