Wildlife Wednesday 10/29/2025

Happy WildlifeWednesday!

The Wood Duck is a colorful and ornate species of waterfowl found in North America, considered by many to be among the most beautiful birds. The male is particularly spectacular, with a glossy emerald head, chestnut breast, striking red eyes and bill, and other bold markings. Its stunning plumage includes intricate patterns and details on nearly every feather.

Wood Ducks are a type of perching duck and can often be spotted high in treetops. Their feet have long claws that are designed for gripping bark and branches. Their preferred habitat is wooded swamps and marshes, where they will nest in tree cavities. They also readily use manmade nest boxes placed near water. They are quite comfortable flying through woodlands, and their short broad wings help them with maneuverability as they navigate among the trees.

Wood Ducks are the only North American duck that regularly produce two broods each year. When the ducklings hatch, they jump down from the nest in the tree in response to a call from their mother. They jump from heights as high as 50 feet and land without injury, usually touching down on soft material such as leaf litter or in the water.

As dabbling ducks, they feed from the surface of the water rather than diving underwater completely. They also graze and forage on land, eating berries, acorns, insects, seeds and plant matter.