The American Black Duck is a large, dark dabbling duck of eastern North America whose sooty-brown plumage and violet wing speculum distinguish it from the similar but paler Mallard. It hybridizes extensively with Mallards, and pure Black Ducks have declined as Mallards expanded into its range. It favors remote, undisturbed wetlands and is considered a barometer of wilderness quality.
Habitat
Freshwater and coastal marshes, bogs, and tidal creeks
Diet
Aquatic plants, seeds, invertebrates, and snails
How common
Common
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