American Black Duck (Anas rubripes)

The paler head contrasting with the overall dark body and crown help distinguish this species from the more cosmopolitan Mallard. This is an adult male despite its female-like plumage. Formerly common and ubiquitous in the Northeast where I grew up, they now seem to be relatively scarce and locally distributed. The overall population has declined by a reported 50%. Habitat loss, interbreeding with Mallard and over-hunting have been blamed for their decline. Bag limits were reduced to one per day and the hunting season reduced to 30 days starting in 1983. This action appears to have stabilized their population. Formerly known as just "Black Duck" the modifier "American" was presumably added to avoid confusion with African and Pacifica Black Ducks. Formerly lumped with the Mottled Duck under the name "Dusky Duck."