General

Laysan Duck: Teal-sized duck, endemic to the Hawaiian islands. Brown with patch of white feathers around eye, green-glossed head and neck with variable white feathers that may increase with age. Speculum may appear green, purple, or blue. Dark gray bill with variable black markings and dull orange feet and legs. Sexes similar, females show more white on chin, lack green gloss and has a pale brown bill with black blotches. Underparts more buff-colored. Juveniles appear darker brown and lack white eyering and white feathers on head and neck.

Range and Habitat

Laysan Duck: Endemic to Laysan Island, they prefer land and mud flats but do spend time in shallow water. They were once near extinction but the population is now stable at roughly 600 birds. About 100 birds have been introduced to Midway Atoll in hopes of establishing a new colony.

Breeding and Nesting

Laysan Duck: Four to six pale buff to pale green eggs are laid in a shallow scrape lined with dead grass on the ground that is hidden in vegetation. Incubated by female for 28 days.

Foraging and Feeding

Laysan Duck: Feeds at night and forages mostly on ground or mud flats but will dabble in shallow water. Eats insect larvae and adult brine flies which it searches for at the edges of water.

Vocalization

Laysan Duck: Male squeaks or whistles and female quacks like a Mallard.

Similar Species

Laysan Duck: Not likely to be confused with any other species in its range.