Pacific Black Duck

Common Name: Pacific Black Duck

Scientific Name: Anas superciliosa

Native to: Australia and the Pacific Islands.

What does it look like: The Pacific Black Duck is easy to identify due to its mottled dark brown plumage and characteristic dark brown line through its eye, which is bordered with cream above and below. Pacific Black Ducks have a dark grey bill and can measure up to 60cm from bill to tail. They have a purple/green metallic panel on their wing, which is visible when fully extended.

Habitat and Diet: The Pacific Black duck occupies many habitats, from freshwater to saline (salty) wetlands. The Pacific Black Duck populates almost every region of Australia except for the driest parts. It is one of the most versatile Australian ducks and frequents all types of water. They are usually seen in pairs or small flocks and readily mix with other ducks. Pacific Black Ducks are mainly vegetarian. Their diet comprises aquatic plants and sometimes small crustaceans and aquatic insects. They feed by either 'dabbling' at food on the water's surface or 'bobbing' to reach food underwater. Occasionally, they seek food on land in damp, grassy areas. Female ducks can lay between 16 and 32 eggs, but sadly, the survival rate of chicks is low due to predation by wetland predators such as feral cats, native quolls, water rats, and tiger snakes. Only 20% of these will survive past two years of age.

STEM Fun Fact: Crossbreeding with domestic mallard ducks is the Pacific Black Duck's biggest threat in Tasmania. This hybridisation has led to the extinction or near extinction of Pacific Black Ducks on several islands. The Pacific Black Duck is closely related to the Mallard Duck, which was introduced into Australia from the Northern Hemisphere. The two species are very similar in habitats and will interbreed in situations where Mallards have been released.