Duck of the Week: Fuegian Steamer
This flightless South American duck is one of the largest in the world.
Known for their aggressive disposition, Fuegian steamer ducks are exclusive to the southwestern coastal regions of Chile. I first explored this incredible species in my article on the greatest duck graphic ever, where I mentioned the violent nature of steamers and their propensity for using the submerged sneak to attack their victims unaware.
The Fuegian steamer is a flightless duck that uses its wings more like paddles to move through the water. That and as knobby combat weapons used to beat its rival waterfowl into submission. Steamers have been known to attack other birds who share their pond as well as other steamers who dare to wander into their territory.
This particular species of steamer is one of the largest ducks in the world, weighing in at 3.5-7 kilograms. They are far from the most graceful ducks, but they’re impressive nonetheless, living on the rocks of Tierra del Fuego and only moving inland to breed.
Most ducks I’ve written about are ones I’d be glad to come across in the wild, but when it comes to the Fuegian steamer, I may have to take a pass. Nonetheless, they’re one of my favorite species because of how differently they approach the duck experience in this world.