Wood Duck Habits

Wood Duck

Wood Ducks are considered one of the most beautiful species of waterfowl in North America.

By the early 20th century hunters had almost wiped out this bird. Due to protective laws the wood duck is now making a healthy comeback.

This bird has a length of 18 inches, the male has a colorful

head with a white throat and a partial neck-ring and chinstrap.

The large crest is green and the bill is pink.

The eye is noticiably red.

The female is brownish gray with a darker crown and a broad white eye-ring that tapers to a point in back.

Males plumage in eclipse is similar to female but retains some of the white facial markings.

The mating/courtship habits or of the wood duck take place through fall and winter. The female wil repeatedly flick her bill back over her shoulder.

Her mate responds by raising his wings and tail, turning the back of his head to her and swimming away. She then follows him.

The nest of this bird is made of wood chips and down. Located in a natural tree cavity or man-made birdhouse.

The nest is generally 5 to 50 feet above the ground or water.

These birds are highly campatible, often returning to the same nesting site year after year to raise successive broods.

The Perfect
Wood Duck House

The female bird lays 10 - 15 dull white eggs. Inucbation is done by the female only and last 27 to 30 days.

The young downy leave the nest soon after hatching. The young birds will need about 7 more weeks before learning to fly.

These birds feed on aquatic plants, nuts, and fruit. Some insects, small fish, and crusteaceans may also be eaten.

If you live near wooded swamps, ponds, or marshes consider placing a bird house to attract the beautiful wood duck to your backyard.

Read a little duck tale humor

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