Muscovy ducks are a large breed of duck with a white head and red around the eyes. They are tropical ducks but can survive in colder climates as well. They can be extremely prolific animals and local populations can increase dramatically in a short time.
They can lay eggs all year long. It is not uncommon for them to lay up to twelve eggs at a time. With a gestation period of about 35 days, the population can increase quickly. As the population of this bird begins to increase; so does the potential for damage to your home or landscaping.
Muscovy Duck on the Lawn
Feral populations of Muscovy ducks will often settle near lakes and farms in urban and suburban areas. Many places can serve as a nest, such as tree cavities, on the ground and hidden in the shrubs or even under a balcony. They may wreak havoc on a park or private lawn, eating up vegetation and ripping apart gardens.
Muscovy Duck Waste
Muscovy ducks become pesky beggars when they are regularly fed by humans. That also means that they will hang around places where humans tend to be. They also tend to produce around 2 pounds of droppings a day, defecating liberally in ponds, swimming pools, balconies, docks, and lawns, presenting a health hazard for humans and pets.
Muscovy Duck Dissuasion and Deterrence
The first and most effective way of dissuading Muscovy ducks from hanging around private or public grounds is to prevent humans from feeding them. Muscovy ducks may delight children and bird-lovers but they will become habituated to being fed by humans and follow them around.
Harassing the ducks is also an effective method of deterrence. Making noise and chasing them with trained dogs will convince the ducks that the area is not hospitable.
Because Muscovy ducks are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Contact one of our AAAC Wildlife Removal specialists, who will have the appropriate permits and know-how to take care of your duck problem.
Muscovy Duck Control and Management
Exterminating Muscovy ducks would be detrimental to the environment, as they play a large part in controlling insect populations. It is also not recommended to destroy their nests, as they can reproduce at any time of the year and will simply lay a new clutch.
In any case, Muscovy ducks are a protected species under US federal law, and only licensed professionals are allowed to manipulate nests and control duck populations. Our AAAC Wildlife Removal specialists possess the right permits and know the appropriate control methods to make sure your Muscovy duck problem flies away.
