Wood Duck

Wood Duck

Aix Sponsa

Eats

Omnivores, eating a variety of seeds, fruits, acorns, nuts, insects, and other arthropods.

Lives

They are found in the Eastern US where they migrate south for winter, but there is a small population found on the west coast. Wooded swamps, streams, freshwater marshes, and beaver ponds.

Behavior

These ducks are cavity nesters, meaning they often are found in holes in trees. They can perch and fly easily throughout wooded areas. When swimming, their head can be seen jerking back and forth, as a pigeons would as they walk. They are social within their species and are often found in small groups of approximately 20 individuals, but will not interact with other waterfowl.

Description

They are a medium-sized perching duck. The males are more elaborate with multicolored iridescent plumage and red eyes, with a distinctive white flare down the neck. Females are less colorful with a white eye-ring and a whitish throat.  Both adults have crested heads.

Did you Know?

Mill Mountain Zoo is home to many animals who wouldn't survive being released into the wild or are at risk of extinction.

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Least Concern
Least Concern
Near Threatened
Near Threatened
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Endangered
Endangered
Critically Endangered
Critically Endangered
Extinct in the Wild
Extinct in the Wild
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