Wood Duck
Image: Mbugs (cc-by-nc)
NameWood Duck
Common NameWood Duck
Scientific NameAix sponsa
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)69.5
Length (cm)50.5
Weight (g)655
Plumage DetailsMales have an iridescent green and purple head with a prominent crest, a white throat, a chestnut breast, and buff flanks. Females are duller brown with a distinctive white tear-drop shaped eye-ring and a smaller crest. Both sexes have a white belly.
Vocalization / CallMales produce a rising 'jeeeeee' whistle, while females emit a loud, rising 'oo-eek, oo-eek' call, especially when flushed. They also make various hoots and squeaks.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswooded swamps, marshes, ponds, rivers, lakes, forested wetlands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout much of North America, breeding across the eastern United States and southeastern Canada, and along the Pacific coast from British Columbia to California. Winters in the southern U.S. and Mexico.
Identifying Featuresiridescent crest (male), white eye-ring (female), distinctive facial patterns, chestnut breast (male), white belly, perches in trees
Description
The Wood Duck is a medium-sized, strikingly beautiful duck known for its iridescent plumage and distinctive crest. They are agile flyers and often perch in trees, nesting in tree cavities near water.
