I don't like keeping secrets. You guys are special!
And you like dogs and chickens and growing things...
Which one is not like the others?
There are some of you out there that know the answer. I'm sure of it.
So come on and chime in!
It's this one.
This little jewel showed up one morning around dawn a couple weeks back. She's a muscovy duck. See the carnucles on her face? They fly very well, so she came and went until...
She discovered everyone else being fed and waddled up the lawn to the feed dishes and wagged her butt in delight.
I love her...she has a quirky personality, and the ripple pattern is mesmerizing.
See?
Even more interesting: they do not quack. Muscovy communicate with one another by wagging their tails and raising and lowering their heads. Males make a raspy hissing noise. Many people like this trait since they are “quiet” ducks. They are excellent fliers and will roost in trees or on buildings if given the chance.
Mature males (known as drakes) will weigh anywhere from 12 to 15 pounds. The females (known as ducks) weigh a little less-- 8 to 10 pounds. Both sexes have what is known as a “caruncle” on their head.
It is said that muscovy eggs are delicious and are used in many dishes prepared by individuals or by famous cooks. Their taste is rich and they are considered a delicacy.
(I've personally never tried a muscovy egg, but if she lays one, I'll let you know what I think!)
Another interesting fact is that muscovy meat is one of the healthiest meats on the market today, being 98% or greater fat free. I've heard the muscovy meat compared to veal. It is much leaner than mallard derived ducks.