Here at Hotel Rivel, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of Costa Rican mountains, we’re surrounded by a vibrant tapestry of life. Today, we turn our gaze to a truly unique resident of the wetlands: the Comb Duck. This magnificent bird, with its striking plumage and fascinating behaviors, is a captivating sight to behold.

A Duck Unlike Any Other

The Comb Duck, also known as the American Comb Duck (Sarkidiornis sylvicola), is a resident of the tropical wetlands found in South America, with its range extending to the northern tip of Paraguay and southeastern Brazil. While uncommon, sightings of this special bird can occasionally grace the waterways near Hotel Rivel.

One of the largest duck species, the Comb Duck boasts an impressive size. Adults can reach lengths of up to 30 inches (76 cm), with a wingspan stretching to a remarkable 57 inches (145 cm). Weight-wise, they can range from a light 2.3 pounds (1.03 kg) to a hefty 6.4 pounds (2.9 kg).

A Tale of Two Colors

The Comb Duck’s plumage is a stunning display of contrasting colors. The head is adorned with a crown of white feathers, delicately freckled with dark spots. This transitions seamlessly into a pure white neck and underparts, creating a sense of elegance.

In stark contrast, the upper body is a mesmerizing spectacle of glossy blue-black. This dark canvas shimmers with an iridescent sheen, particularly on the secondary feathers, where hints of blue and green dance in the sunlight.

The Distinctive Comb: A Sign of Masculinity

The defining characteristic of the male Comb Duck is the presence of a large, black knob perched atop its bill. This fleshy protuberance, aptly named the “comb,” is most prominent during breeding season, serving as a visual display of dominance and attractiveness to potential mates. The female, however, lacks this distinctive feature, sporting a plain bill instead.

A Life Among the Wetlands

Comb Ducks are primarily found in freshwater habitats like rivers, lakes, and marshes. They are adept swimmers, gracefully gliding across the water’s surface. These opportunistic feeders have a varied diet, consuming a mix of aquatic plants, seeds, insects, and small fish.

Unlike many duck species, Comb Ducks are surprisingly fond of perching in trees. Their strong claws allow them to cling effortlessly to vertical trunks, a sight that may surprise even the most seasoned birdwatcher.

A Rare Encounter at Hotel Rivel

Spotting a Comb Duck near Hotel Rivel is a true privilege. While not as common as some of our resident birds, their occasional presence adds to the rich biodiversity that surrounds our retreat.

If you’re fortunate enough to encounter this magnificent creature, take a moment to appreciate its unique beauty. The Comb Duck, with its contrasting colors, impressive size, and fascinating adaptation for breeding, is a testament to the wonders of nature that await exploration in the Costa Rican wilderness.

Stay tuned for our next blog post, where we’ll delve into the lives of another captivating bird species that calls Hotel Rivel home!

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica

This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)