Masked Duck

The masked duck (Nomonyx dominicus) is a diminutive member of the stiff-tailed ducks, cloaked in the rich hues of the tropics. The males, in their breeding plumage, boast a striking rust-colored body set against a black face, while their wings are adorned with a mottled pattern. Females, non-breeding males, and the young present a more subdued barred brownish gray body, accented with two dark stripes that traverse the buff of their facial canvas.

Identification Tips

To identify the masked duck, look for the characteristic black facial mask in breeding males, which contrasts with their rust-colored body. Females and juveniles can be recognized by their barred brownish gray plumage and the distinctive horizontal stripes on their face.

Habitat

These ducks favor the seclusion of freshwater bodies rich in marsh vegetation, often ensconced by a dense arboreal embrace. They are also known to inhabit the brackish realms of mangrove swamps.

Distribution

The masked duck's range extends from the southern reaches of Texas and Mexico, through the verdant expanses of South America, and into the island tapestry of the Caribbean. They are largely sedentary, with occasional reports of them as rare vagrants in the southern United States.

Behaviour

Masked ducks are elusive creatures, often shrouded in the secrecy of their habitat. Despite their secretive nature, they are not considered rare and are not currently threatened.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the masked duck is a mosaic of seeds, roots, stems, and leaves from aquatic plants, supplemented by a variety of aquatic insects and crustaceans. They forage by diving, a testament to their adaptability and resourcefulness.

Conservation Status

The masked duck is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, reflecting a stable presence across its widespread range. In Texas, as of the year 2000, the population was estimated at 3,800 individuals.