Muscovy Duck or Domestic Duck song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Muscovy Duck or Domestic Duck, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

Neither species has a complex song. Vocalizations are generally limited to calls.

Calls

Muscovy Duck: Relatively quiet. Males produce a low, hissing sound or a soft, breathy 'hush-hush'. Females make a soft, trilling or quacking sound, especially when agitated or calling ducklings. Domestic Duck: Varies by breed. Many breeds, particularly females, produce the classic loud 'quack' associated with ducks. Males (drakes) often have a softer, raspier 'raab-raab' or 'kwek-kwek' sound. Some breeds are nearly silent.

When they vocalize

Vocalize throughout the day, particularly when alarmed, feeding, or communicating with offspring.

Explore the Muscovy Duck or Domestic Duck