Wood Duck Habits

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.

Description

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.

Mating Habits

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

Nesting Habits

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

If successful broods are raised, Wood Ducks will often return to the same nesting site year after year to raise successive broods.

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.

Feeding Habits

Habitat

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