Rare Muscovy ducks delight birdwatchers in Salalah

Salalah: A rare wildlife sighting has delighted birdwatchers in Dhofar as a pair of Muscovy Ducks were spotted and photographed in Salalah shortly before the start of Khareef 2025.

The unusual observation was made by Paramveer Singh, a Class 9 student of Indian School Salalah and son of noted wildlife photographer Amardeep Singh, during his visit to Dhariz Khor with his father.

The discovery is significant because Muscovy Ducks (Cairina moschata) are not native to Oman. Originating in Central and South America, they are usually found in ornamental collections or as feral groups in parts of the United States, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Their sudden appearance in Salalah underlines both the unpredictability and richness of the region’s biodiversity.

Recognisable by their distinctive red, warty facial skin (caruncles), Muscovy Ducks are larger than most duck species, with males weighing up to 7-8 kg. The plumage varies from black-and-white to iridescent green and bronze, while the birds are known more for their low hissing and cooing than the typical quack. Calm and hardy, they can even perch in trees - an uncommon trait among ducks.

Paramveer, who captured clear photographs of both the male and female ducks, expressed his excitement. “It was a very special moment. Muscovy Ducks are rare in Salalah, and I felt lucky to see them together. I hope this inspires more young people to look closely at the amazing wildlife we have here,” he said.

Salalah’s lagoons, wadis, and coastal marshes have long been magnets for migratory and resident waterfowl. The Khor Salalah Nature Reserve alone is home to more than 70 species of exotic and protected birds, ranging from wading birds to ducks and other waterfowl.

With the Khareef monsoon turning Dhofar into a lush green landscape that draws nature lovers from around the world, the timing of this sighting has added to the excitement of the season.

Wildlife experts note that such unexpected encounters are valuable for raising awareness of biodiversity and conservation in Oman. The sighting of Muscovy Ducks, whether accidental visitors or released escapees, reinforces Salalah’s growing reputation as a hotspot for birdwatchers and nature photographers alike.