Wood Duck Aix sponsa

Identification
This duck has iridescent plumage in males and a crested head. Females have a white eye ring.

Location
Common statewide

Size
1 to 2 pounds

Diet
It feeds on seeds insects and aquatic plants.

Habitat
It occurs in wooded wetlands.

Activity Period
March to November

Behavior
It nests in tree cavities and nest boxes. It migrates south in winter.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in spring.

Population
The population is stable statewide.

History
It declined historically but recovered.

Human Interactions
It often uses human provided nest boxes.

Facts
It is one of the most colorful ducks in North America.

Sources
ODNR academic sources

Seeds insects aquatic plants | Wetlands rivers wooded swamps | Statewide