Hawaii Biological Survey's


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75. Laysan Duck

Scientific name: Anas laysanensis

Hawaiian Name: —

Classification: Phylum: Chordata. Class: Aves.

Origin: Endemic.

Status: Endangered.

Distribution: Laysan Island.

Map: --


The Laysan Duck once occurred throughout the Hawaiian chain (scientists have identified the bones of this duck on other islands), but is now restricted to just Laysan Island in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands.

It feeds on small insects, seeds, and aquatic plants. It has the unique habit of running full speed through swarms of brine flies with its mouth wide open and its neck extended forward to feed on these tiny denizens of the lagoon and along the shoreline.

 

 Photo by Wayne C. Gagné