Wood Duck
NameWood Duck
Common NameWood Duck
Scientific NameAix sponsa
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)69.5
Length (cm)50.5
Weight (g)650
Plumage DetailsMale Wood Ducks exhibit an iridescent green and purple crested head with distinct white stripes, a bright red eye, and a red bill with a yellow tip. Their chest is a rich chestnut, flanks are buff with a prominent black and white stripe, and the back is dark iridescent. Females are duller with a white eye-ring and a less pronounced crest.
Vocalization / CallMales produce a rising 'jeeeeee' whistle, while females give a loud, distinctive 'oo-eek, oo-eek' alarm call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswooded wetlands, swamps, rivers, ponds, lakes
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidely distributed across North America, primarily in the eastern United States and Canada, and along the Pacific coast.
Identifying Featuresiridescent crested head, red eye, distinct white facial stripes, colorful plumage (male), perching duck
Description
The Wood Duck is a medium-sized perching duck renowned for the male's strikingly iridescent and colorful plumage. They are typically found in wooded wetlands, where they dabble for food and nest in tree cavities.
