Varieties of Black Ducks

"Official" Black Ducks

• The group of duck species formally known as American Black ducks consists of birds that are dark brown -- but not black -- in color. These "official" black ducks resemble dark mallards and are closely related to them; black ducks and mallards often crossbreed when both occur in the same area. Native to eastern North America, the American Black duck population is declining, possibly because of crossbreeding with mallards.

All-Black or Mostly Black Ducks

• The only all-black or predominantly black ducks native to North America are sea ducks, such as the Surf Scoter and Black Scoter. Domesticated ducks of various species can also show largely black coloration. Muscovy ducks, common domestic ducks in the U.S., have predominantly greenish-black plumage in South America, where the live in the wild. Most muscovies in North America, however, show patches of white because breeders historically favored white birds. Muscovies are also easy to identify by the red skin on their faces. Ancona ducks, a domesticated breed originally from Great Britain, can have large patches of black on a white background.

Ducks with Prominent Black Markings

• Several native ducks in North America have prominent black features. Ring-Necked ducks have all-black heads, backs and chests. Greater and Lesser Scaup likewise have all-black heads and chests, and a fine black-and-white pattern on their backs that looks gray from a distance. Black-Bellied Whistling ducks are mostly a rusty tan with solid black undersides.

Atypical Black Ducks and Look-Alikes

• Occasionally, ducks that would normally have other color patterns may end up with black or unusually dark plumage. These color abnormalities are unusual, but well-documented. Also, many all-black or mostly black water birds can be mistaken for ducks at a distance. Among these is the American Coot, which is solid black with a white bill (it can be distinguished from ducks by its non-webbed feet and its bill shape), and Common and Pacific loons, which have black or dark gray heads during the spring and summer.