Musk Duck

Identification

The musk duck is a distinctive, heavily built diving duck found only in southern Australia. Adult males are 60 to 70 cm long and notably heavier than females, which measure 47 to 55 cm. The most conspicuous feature of breeding males is a large, leathery lobe hanging beneath the bill, which swells during the breeding season and is absent in females. Both sexes share drab dark grey-brown plumage with slight pin-striping, making them inconspicuous on the water. Males are among the heaviest diving ducks in the world, averaging 2,398 grams compared to females at 1,551 grams. The species floats exceptionally low in the water, almost cormorant-like, with large webbed feet positioned well back on the body. In their native range, the distinctive fanned tail helps distinguish them from the similarly sized and coloured freckled duck.

Range & Habitat

This highly aquatic species is endemic to southern Australia, where it is moderately common in the Murray-Darling and Cooper Creek basins, as well as wetter, fertile areas across the south of the continent. Populations occur in the southwest corner of Western Australia, Victoria, and Tasmania. Musk ducks prefer deep, still lakes and wetlands that offer a mix of open water and reed beds. They seldom leave the water and are notably awkward on dry land, though they can fly swiftly and for considerable distances when necessary, using rapid, shallow wing beats. The species is the only living member of its genus, with an extinct relative once occurring in New Zealand.

Behaviour & Diet

Musk ducks spend virtually all day in the water, alternating between loafing and energetic feeding. They are supremely agile in water, twisting and turning with effortless grace using both feet and tail. They are exceptional divers, slipping beneath the surface head-first with minimal disturbance and remaining submerged for up to a minute, often descending to depths of at least 6 metres. They dive to escape danger, avoid unwanted company, and hunt for food. Their primary diet comprises water beetles, yabbies, freshwater snails, shellfish, and similar invertebrates, supplemented by aquatic plants and occasional fish. When not breeding, adults are generally solitary, with territorial males excluding other individuals. Younger birds sometimes gather in flocks on larger water bodies.

Best Time & Places to See It

The breeding season, typically from July to January with peak activity in September and October during austral spring, is the best time to locate and observe musk ducks. During this period, males become vocal and conspicuous, producing their characteristic repetitive advertising display. Search deep, still lakes and extensive wetlands with reed beds in Victoria, Tasmania, and southwestern Western Australia. The Murray-Darling Basin and Cooper Creek basins offer particularly good opportunities. Birds remain on the water throughout the day and night, so they are accessible for observation from dawn until dusk, though early morning often provides the most active viewing.

Photography Tips

The musk duck's habit of floating low in the water and spending minimal time on land makes waterside photography essential. Position yourself near reed beds and open water areas where birds feed and display. During breeding season, males are more conspicuous and vocal, offering better opportunities for both photography and audio recording. Their dramatic breeding display—the ker-plonk splash, calls, whistle, and grunt sequence repeated every 4 to 5 seconds—provides dynamic shooting opportunities. Early morning light reflects well off still water where these ducks prefer to stay. A telephoto lens is advisable, as the species may dive suddenly if disturbed. The distinctive bill lobe of breeding males and the low-floating posture are key identifying features to capture.