Ducks and “muscovy”, the world’s biggest duck

This year, amateurs seeking authenticity and unusual hunting will have the opportunity to discover our area near Fortin Soledad (Soledad Fort), a small and isolated town located in the northern part of Formosa province, and on the banks of the world’s largest marsh (215 miles long and 6 miles wide).

This marsh, which has vegetation that varies from palm groves to dry trees, is usually flooded from February though June, and gradually begins to drain away during the winter. This is the time of the year when thousands of wading birds and anatids arrive looking for shelter and food. Ducks species are abundant in this area, and depending on the remaining water level, we may be able to find one of the less known species among hunters – the Muscovy duck, locally called “pato picazo”, the world’s biggest duck (the biggest ones can weight between 6.6 and 15 pounds). This duck lives mainly in the jungle, hanging from dry trees that become safe sleeping spaces, or at the top of palm trees when they nestle. This is a surprising habit, much different from the one of the European ducks. These ducks not only have webbed feet, but also three large talons on their legs, which literally allow them to hang from trees and land without difficulty. It is a fantastic show for hunters when they see these magnificent birds emerge from the palm trees in groups of 3 to 10. Do not look for them over the trees; they fly under the trees and zigzag among them.

We offer you the possibility to come and discover this extraordinary environment and hunting experience while staying in our chalet, built on piles in the marsh itself. Transportation can be made by pirogue (canoe), on horseback or on foot, depending on the areas to be visited. Our exceptionally comfortable chalet is designed for hunters, who will be able to enjoy double bedrooms, one dining room and a shower. The excursion we propose lasts between 3 and 5 days, depending on your choice, and can only be scheduled for at least two people but not more than four. The ideal period for large ducks (Muscovy duck) depends on the water level, but it basically goes from July 1 through September 30. They can be found before such period but in smaller numbers. On the other hand, small ducks such as black-bellied tree ducks, fulvous tree ducks or crested ducks can be found since early April. The 3 hunting days in the marsh can be followed by three days hunting pigeons (band-tailed pigeons), a species widely found in this region, less than 155 miles away. Additionally, a combination of partridges and elegant crested tinamou can be arranged.