Beak of the Week: Wood Duck

Arguably one of the most beautiful birds of North America, the Wood Duck is certainly a treat to see and easy to identify (at least the males in full plumage)!

In my opinion, there are few sights more spectacular than the Wood Duck. To learn more about Wood Ducks and the Wood Duck Society, please click visit http://www.woodducksociety.com/.

With it’s magnificent, colorful feathers, unique silhouette, and striking red eye, you won’t want to miss this beautiful waterfowl.

A Wood Duck, Aix sponsa

Common Name: Wood Duck

Latin Name: Aix sponsa

Range: Distinctively North American species, found in southern Canada to the eastern, southern, and western coasts of the United States.

Habitat: Swamps, forested wetlands, freshwater marshes and ponds.

Wood Ducks, by Richard Clifton, top prize, 2012 Connecticut Duck Stamp Art Contest (courtesy DEEP). The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has released the winning entries in the inaugural Connecticut Duck Stamp Art Contest. Money from the duck stamp sales will benefit wildlife conservation. This year’s painting of three wood ducks was submitted by wildlife artist Richard Clifton, who has also won the federal duck stamp art contest.

Diet: Mostly seeds and fruits. Occasionally insects and other arthropods.

Conservation Status: Least Concern

Although 30-75 percent of wood ducks are permanent residents, migratory wood ducks use the Atlantic Flyway and Pacific Flyway—be sure to keep your eyes peeled for those migrants!

Happy Birding!!

Michelle + Danielle

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