[7] It has at various times been known by other names, some of them – such as "Brazilian", "Buenos Airean", "Labrador" – suggesting a geographical origin.

There is, however, no documented connection to the East Indies, to South America, or to Labrador.

[8]: 38  A hypothesis that the black color of the plumage derives from the native American species Anas rubripes appears to be unsubstantiated.

[8]: 38 Black East Indians were imported to the United Kingdom in or before 1831, supposedly from Buenos Aires, and were housed in the Zoological Gardens of the Zoological Society of London;[2]: 389 [9] they were at first called "Buenos Aireans".

Ducks may sometimes develop white feathers as they age;[5] drakes that do so should not be used for breeding.