Birds
Comb Duck
Sarkidiornis sylvicola
Crowned with a prominent fleshy black knob atop the bill, a breeding male comb duck stands out among South American waterfowl, one of the most visually distinctive ornaments found on any duck species on the continent.
Overview
The comb duck, Sarkidiornis sylvicola, is a Least Concern waterfowl species found across lowland wetlands and waterways throughout South America east of the Andes. Its distinctive fleshy bill ornament in breeding males, large body size, and habit of nesting in tree cavities make it one of the more physically and behaviourally distinctive ducks found anywhere on the continent.
An ornament unlike any other duck
The fleshy comb that gives this species its name grows most prominently on breeding males, likely playing a role in attracting mates, and sets the comb duck apart from the smoother-billed waterfowl that share its wetland habitat.
Status
Least Concern, remaining widespread across suitable wetland and waterway habitat throughout its South American range.
Comb Duck: common questions
Why is it called the comb duck?
Breeding males develop a large, fleshy black knob atop the bill resembling a comb, a distinctive feature that gives the species its common name.
How big is the size difference between male and female comb ducks?
Males are substantially larger and heavier than females, a pronounced difference between the sexes compared to many other duck species.
Where does the comb duck nest?
Unlike many ducks, it nests in natural tree cavities rather than on the ground or within marsh vegetation.
What does the comb duck eat?
It is an omnivore, feeding on aquatic plants, seeds, grain, and small invertebrates found in its wetland habitat.