№ 17212 Jul 2026
Trumpeter Swan Prints for a Calm Bedroom
Why still water is the most restful subject you can hang above a headboard, and how a trumpeter swan print in the right size settles a whole bedroom.
Glacial & backyard waters
Pond & Pothole
The small inland waters carry more life than their size suggests. Dabbling ducks tip for weed, geese graze the margins, and coots and grebes squabble across the open middle. This is the habitat most readers can watch from home.
172 dispatches filed under this habitat
№ 17112 Jul 2026
Canada Goose Wall Art: The Migration Classic
Why the black-necked silhouette every American knows by heart makes the most dependable goose print you can hang, and how to choose between a calm pair and a flight scene.
№ 17012 Jul 2026
Christmas Gifts for Duck Hunters
An evergreen Christmas guide for the duck hunter on your list, and the case for a print that will still hang in the den long after this season's gear is retired.
№ 16912 Jul 2026
Man Cave to Study: Upgrading with Goldeneye and Canvasback Art
Every man cave reaches the night the neon sign stops being funny, and the fastest way to grow the room up is to change what hangs on its walls.
№ 16812 Jul 2026
Duck Prints: Choosing the Right Species for the Room
Duck prints are not interchangeable, and matching the species to the room is the difference between a wall that works and a wall that merely has a duck on it.
№ 16712 Jul 2026
Federal Duck Stamps: Why Collectors Love Stamp-Style Teal and Pintail Art
For over ninety years the federal duck stamp has funded American wetlands with a postage-sized piece of art, and its composition rules still teach a wall how to behave.
№ 16612 Jul 2026
Goose vs Duck Art: Which Suits the Room
Geese give a wall sky, distance and formality while ducks bring colour and closeness, and the right choice comes down to how the room is actually used.
№ 16512 Jul 2026
Grebe Prints and the Quiet-Water Aesthetic
The grebe is the bird you notice second, and that modesty is exactly what makes a grebe print the right art for small, quiet rooms.
№ 16412 Jul 2026
Loon Prints: The Sound of the North on Your Wall
Why the common loon, with its midnight wail and checkerboard back, makes the most evocative print a lake house wall can carry.
№ 16312 Jul 2026
Mallard Wall Art: A Classic for Dens, Offices and Cabins
Why the mallard drake remains the default American duck print, and how to hang one so a den, office or cabin wall looks considered rather than merely decorated.
№ 16212 Jul 2026
Geese in V Formation: The Science Behind Migration Art
The V is a machine for sharing work, each bird riding the upwash of the wing ahead, and that physics is why a flight print gives a room a motion that still art cannot.
№ 16112 Jul 2026
Northwoods Cabin Decor: The Loon, the Lake, the Light
Pine, mist, granite, and one loon: how to decorate a northwoods cabin with art that belongs to the lake instead of performing for it.
№ 16012 Jul 2026
Small Wall, Big Effect: Teal and Wigeon Prints
Real houses are full of small walls that defeat big art and swallow tiny frames, and the answer is one properly scaled print with a horizon in it.
№ 15912 Jul 2026
Snow Goose Prints: Winter Light on the Wall
How a rising flock of white geese brings true winter light into a room, and why the slate-bodied blue morph is the pick for people who know their geese.
№ 15812 Jul 2026
Anniversary Gifts with Meaning: Why Swans Mate for Life
Most swan pairs stay together year after year, and that quiet, well-documented loyalty is what makes a swan pair print an anniversary gift with real meaning behind it.
№ 15712 Jul 2026
Gentle Swan Prints for a Traditional Nursery
A guide to nursery art that skips the cartoon phase entirely, built around gentle swan prints, calm water palettes and pieces a child can grow up alongside.
№ 15612 Jul 2026
The Old Decoy: Why Vintage Waterfowl Style Endures
The working decoy became America's accidental folk art and the Duck Stamp turned art into wetlands, which is why the vintage waterfowl look still holds a wall better than anything newer.
№ 15512 Jul 2026
Wood Duck Prints: America's Most Collected Duck
The wood duck was nearly lost a century ago, which is part of why carvers, stamp collectors and print buyers have never stopped putting it on the wall.
№ 1543 Jul 2026
Duck Hunter Gift Guide: 12 Gifts Beyond Gear
12 gifts for the duck hunter in your life that aren't another call or another box of shells, from oil-painting-style waterfowl prints to the small camp gear that actually gets used.
№ 1533 Jul 2026
Gifts for Bird Lovers: The Wetland Edition
A gift guide for the wetland bird lover in your life: oil-painting-style prints of heron, loon, kingfisher, and swan first, then the field gear and days out that round out the perfect gift.
№ 1523 Jul 2026
Grandmillennial Decor: Why Oil-Painting-Style Swan and Bird Prints Are Back
Why grandmillennial interiors are bringing traditional bird art back, and where oil-painting-style prints of swans, wood duck, and pheasant fit into the revival.
№ 1513 Jul 2026
Best Waterfowl Prints for the Hunting Lodge
A decor guide to waterfowl prints for the hunting lodge or den: which birds suit the room, how to pair them, dark-wood pairings, and what size to buy for the wall you actually have.
№ 1503 Jul 2026
Swan Prints: Elegance for Bedrooms and Entryways
A decor guide to swan wall art, from mute swan pairs to trumpeter and whooper swans, and why swans mating for life makes them a natural anniversary gift.
№ 14911 Feb 2026
Can Ducks Eat Oats? Yes, an Excellent Treat
Oats are one of the most useful supplemental foods for ducks. Plain rolled or whole oats are calorie-dense, high in fibre, easy to swallow, and naturally fit waterfowl digestion. Skip flavoured instant oatmeal - the salt and sugar additions are harmful.
№ 14811 Feb 2026
Can Ducks Eat Pickles? No - And Here's Why It Matters
Pickles are loaded with salt and vinegar - both genuinely harmful to ducks. Sodium toxicity is one of the most easily caused waterfowl poisonings, and the acetic acid disrupts gut function. Fresh cucumber is fine; anything pickled is not.
№ 14711 Feb 2026
Can Geese Eat Nuts? Yes, Raw and Unsalted Only
Geese can safely eat raw unsalted nuts in small quantities. Peanuts, almonds, walnuts and pecans are all fine when chopped fine and offered as treats. Salted, smoked, or flavoured nuts are not. Bitter almonds and macadamias should be avoided entirely.
№ 14611 Feb 2026
Can Geese See in the Dark? Better Than Humans
Geese have better low-light vision than humans but aren't truly nocturnal. They're crepuscular - active at dawn and dusk - and migrate at night using a combination of magnetic, celestial and visual cues. In genuine darkness they roost on water and rely on hearing for threat detection.
№ 14510 Feb 2026
Black and White Duck Breeds: The 6 Main Types
Six duck breeds produce reliable black-and-white plumage: Magpie, Ancona, Black Swedish, Silver Appleyard, Hookbill, and (loosely) Cayuga with white markings. They're popular with backyard keepers for layability and personality. Here's how each looks, lays, and behaves.
№ 14410 Feb 2026
Black Goose: Which Species You're Actually Looking At
An 'all-black goose' in North America is almost always a Brant (Branta bernicla) - a small saltwater goose of arctic origin. Less commonly it's a feral Cackling, melanistic Canada, or domestic Chinese variant. Here's how to tell them apart by size, bill, and habitat.
№ 14310 Feb 2026
Do Swans Mate for Life? Mostly, With Divorces Too
Swans form long-term pair bonds and most stay together for many breeding seasons. But about 6-9% of Mute Swan pairs 'divorce' each year, and bereaved birds often re-pair after a year or two. The folklore is mostly right - just less absolute than the romantic version suggests.
№ 1429 Feb 2026
Do Swans Kill Themselves? No, But Grief Is Real
Swans don't take their own lives - the folklore that they do is romantic projection. But the RSPB confirms genuine grieving behaviour after a mate dies, and weakened older swans can decline and die from grief-related stress. The 'broken heart' story is half-true.
№ 1418 Feb 2026
Can Geese Eat Cat Food? Technically Yes, Practically No
Cat food is too high in protein (30-40% vs geese's 10-20% need), too high in salt, and too low in fibre for waterfowl. It won't poison a goose that snatches a piece but it's nutritionally wrong as a regular food. Stick to formulated waterfowl feed.
№ 1408 Feb 2026
Can Geese Eat Kiwi? Yes - Peel It, Chop It, Limit the Sugar
Kiwi flesh is safe for geese and high in vitamin C. The fuzzy skin and the calcium-oxalate content are minor concerns - peel it, dice it, treat as an occasional fruit, no more than 1-2 times a week.
№ 1398 Feb 2026
photograph forthcoming
Can Geese Eat Mango? Yes - Flesh Only, Never the Pit
Geese can safely eat ripe mango flesh in moderation. The pit contains amygdalin (cyanogenic, like apple seeds and cherry pits) and the skin contains urushiol - both should be removed. Chop into pea-sized pieces; treat as an occasional fruit treat, not a staple.
№ 1387 Feb 2026
Can Hawks Swim? Yes - But Only When They Have To
Hawks can swim and have been documented doing so in the wild and on viral video. They aren't built for it - no webbed feet, less waterproof plumage than waterfowl - but they can wing-row to shore when waterlogged with a catch. Ospreys and Bald Eagles do this regularly; Red-tails and Cooper's only when desperate.
№ 1377 Feb 2026
Why Do Geese Drool? Normal, Heat, and Disease
Geese do produce saliva, and they sometimes open the beak and let it visibly run during hot weather - this is gular panting, the avian equivalent of sweating. Persistent thick or yellow drool with swallowing difficulty is something else: usually trichomonosis (canker). Here's how to tell.
№ 1366 Feb 2026
What to Plant for Ducks in Standing Water: The Working Five
Five plants do most of the work in a duck pond - sago pondweed, wild celery, smartweed, duck potato, and wild rice. Each one feeds different parts of the duck guild. Here's how to establish them, what depth each prefers, and what to skip.
№ 1356 Feb 2026
When Do Ducks Start Laying Eggs in the Wild?
Wild ducks in North America start laying in March, peak in April-May, and finish broods by August. Exact timing varies by species and latitude. Here's the breeding calendar and what to expect on a backyard pond.
№ 1346 Feb 2026
Where Do Ducks Go in the Winter?
North American ducks migrate along four major flyways - Pacific, Central, Mississippi, and Atlantic. Most northern breeders winter in the southern US (Gulf coast, California Central Valley, Chesapeake) or Mexico. Here's the per-species pattern and the science behind it.
№ 1335 Feb 2026
Water Birds in Michigan: The 12 You'll Actually See
Michigan's 3,000+ miles of Great Lakes shoreline plus inland lakes and marshes host roughly 40 water bird species. Twelve cover most field sightings: Common Loon, Mute Swan, Mallard, Wood Duck, Great Blue Heron, plus seven others. Here's where and when.
№ 1325 Feb 2026
Water Birds in Texas: The 16 You'll Actually See
Texas hosts more water bird species than any other US state - over 80 regularly occur. Sixteen cover most field sightings: Roseate Spoonbill, Black-bellied Whistling Duck, Reddish Egret, Great Blue Heron, Anhinga, Mottled Duck, and ten others. Coast, Hill Country wetlands, and Panhandle playas each have their own.
№ 1314 Feb 2026
How to Attract Ducks to Your Pond: The Four-Habitat Build
Wild ducks need four things: shallow margins for dabbling, submerged food plants, predator-proof cover, and nest cavities. Get those four into a one-acre pond and you'll have Mallards, Wood Ducks, and Hooded Mergansers within a single season.
№ 1304 Feb 2026
Swans of North America: Trumpeter, Tundra, and Mute
Three swan species occur in North America: the native Trumpeter (largest, with a clarion call), the native Tundra (smaller, more numerous), and the introduced Mute (Eurasian origin, common on parks and waterways). Here's how to tell them apart by bill, voice, and behaviour.
№ 1294 Feb 2026
Water Birds in Colorado: The 14 You'll Actually See
Colorado's high-altitude wetlands, reservoirs, and South Platte/Arkansas river systems host roughly 50 water bird species. Fourteen cover most field sightings: American Avocet, Cinnamon Teal, Eared Grebe, Snowy Egret, Great Blue Heron, Western Grebe, Mallard, American Wigeon, plus six others. Here's where and when.
№ 1283 Feb 2026
Do Swans Have a Backbone? Swan Skeleton Explained
Swans are vertebrates with a full skeletal spine. The famously long neck contains 22-25 cervical vertebrae - far more than a giraffe's 7 - which is what gives it the flexibility to reach pondweed at depth. Here's the anatomy.
№ 1273 Feb 2026
Do Swans Keep Geese Away? Real Swans Yes, Decoys No
A breeding pair of Mute Swans will aggressively defend their pond against Canada Geese and clear them out within days. Plastic swan decoys mostly don't work - geese learn they're fake within a week. Here's what does work for goose control on a small pond.
№ 1263 Feb 2026
Ducks in Washington: The 12 Species You'll Actually See
Washington State hosts roughly 30 duck species across the Puget Sound, eastern shrub-steppe, and Cascade lakes. Twelve cover most of what you'll see: Mallard, Wood Duck, Northern Pintail, Wigeon, Bufflehead, Harlequin, Common Goldeneye, Greater Scaup, Hooded Merganser, and three teals.
№ 1252 Feb 2026
Do Swans Eat Fish? Rarely - Here's Why
Swans are 95%+ herbivorous. They eat submerged and emergent aquatic plants, grass, grain, and small invertebrates that come up with the plants. A swan that catches a small fish will eat it but they don't hunt - it's opportunistic, not a diet.
№ 12431 Jan 2026
Can Ducks Eat Cauliflower? Yes - Steamed Is Best, Leaves Too
Cauliflower is safe for ducks - florets, stems, and the outer leaves are all edible. Steamed briefly is easier to digest than raw. As with all brassicas, feed in moderation to avoid loose droppings. The outer leaves alone are a useful free treat from kitchen prep.
№ 12330 Jan 2026
Can Ducks Eat Cabbage? Yes, and It's Great Enrichment
Cabbage is safe and excellent for ducks - raw or cooked, chopped or whole (hung on a string as a tetherball game). Green, red, savoy, all fine. The single best winter enrichment for a confined flock.
№ 12228 Jan 2026
Can Ducks Eat Avocado? No - It's Genuinely Toxic
Avocado contains persin, a fungicidal toxin that damages avian heart muscle. All parts (flesh, skin, pit, leaves) carry it. Documented bird deaths come from amounts as small as a teaspoon. There is no safe quantity for any duck.
№ 12128 Jan 2026
Can Ducks Eat Bananas? Yes, Peeled and Mashed
Banana flesh is safe and palatable for ducks. The peel is technically safe but stringy and fibrous - most ducks won't eat it. Mash or chop into small pieces, offer as a treat 1-2 times a week, and skip if your ducks ignore it.
№ 12027 Jan 2026
Can Ducks Eat Almonds? Yes, With Three Important Caveats
Ducks can eat almonds in small amounts but the rules are stricter than most fruit and veg. They must be raw, unsalted, chopped fine, and a treat not a staple. Bitter almonds are toxic. Here's the safe-feeding breakdown.
№ 11927 Jan 2026
Can Ducks Eat Asparagus? Yes, Cooked and Chopped
Ducks can eat asparagus but the tough fibrous stems are hard for them to swallow. Cooked, chopped, with the woody ends removed - that's the version they'll actually eat. Raw is fine too but most ducks ignore it.
№ 11826 Jan 2026
Can Ducks Be Potty Trained? The Honest Answer
No - ducks don't have the anatomy or the cognitive setup for it. A duck poops roughly every 15 minutes and has no sphincter control. What works instead is duck diapers, designated outdoor zones, and a husbandry routine that lives with the mess rather than fighting it.
№ 11726 Jan 2026
Can Ducks Change Gender? Yes, and Here's How
It sounds like myth but it's documented science: hen ducks whose ovary is damaged or stops working can develop secondary male plumage. The bird is still genetically female but visually presents as a drake. Here's the hormonal pathway and why it happens.
№ 11626 Jan 2026
Can Ducks Drink Milk? No, and Here's Why
Ducks have no lactase enzyme. Milk passes through them undigested and causes diarrhoea, which in turn causes dehydration. A duck given milk instead of water can decline quickly. Stick to plain fresh water - the only drink ducks should ever get.
№ 11523 Jan 2026
Best Food to Feed Ducks and Geese: The Pondside Shortlist
Bread is the wrong answer. Cracked corn, frozen peas, oats, and chopped greens are the four foods that actually feed ducks and geese without harming them. Here's the per-food breakdown and how much to bring.
№ 11422 Jan 2026
Baby Ducks: A Plain Guide to Raising Ducklings Properly
Raising ducklings is mostly about three things: warm dry brooder, niacin in the feed, and patience with the water. The mistakes that kill ducklings are predictable, and so is the timeline. Here's the four-week schedule we use.
№ 11321 Jan 2026
How to Attract Northern Flickers to Your Yard
Flickers are the odd woodpecker - they feed on the ground, eat ants by the hundred, and ignore most standard feeders. Here's the suet + lawn + nest-box combination that pulls them in.
№ 11218 Jan 2026
Why Do Geese Attack Each Other? A Field Naturalist's Read
A naturalist's guide to goose-on-goose aggression - why Canada geese fight, what the hissing actually means, the four-step attack sequence to read, and why it almost always peaks in March.
№ 11118 Jan 2026
Why Do Geese Stand on One Leg? Heat Loss, Mainly
A naturalist's read on why geese (and ducks, flamingos, herons) stand on one leg - the thermoregulation, the muscle anatomy, and why you see it most in winter.
№ 11017 Jan 2026
Why Do Ducks Quack? The Real Meaning Behind the Call
Female mallards quack; males rasp. Each call has a job: contact, alarm, courtship, or location. A naturalist's read on the duck vocabulary.
№ 10917 Jan 2026
Why Do Ducks Stand on Each Other? Mating, Not Bullying
Ducks standing on each other is almost always mating behaviour. A naturalist's read on what's actually happening and when to be concerned.
№ 10816 Jan 2026
Why Do Ducks Bob Their Heads Up and Down?
Ducks head-bob to communicate excitement, signal courtship readiness, and confirm species identity. A naturalist's read of when it means what.
№ 10715 Jan 2026
What to Feed Wild Ducks (and What to Stop Feeding Them)
A naturalist's guide to feeding wild ducks - the eight foods that are genuinely safe and useful, the five that cause real harm, and why bread is the worst thing you can hand to a mallard.
№ 10614 Jan 2026
What Are Baby Ducks Called? Ducklings Explained
Baby ducks are called ducklings. A field naturalist's read on what that actually means - the timeline from hatch to fledge, how to tell a duckling from a gosling or a cygnet, and the brood biology that decides how many survive.
№ 10514 Jan 2026
What Can I Feed Ducks at the Pond? The Quick Reference
A short, practical guide to safe and unsafe foods for pond ducks - what to bring, what to leave at home, and how to feed them properly without harming the pond.
№ 10413 Jan 2026
Sounds That Scare Geese: What Works and What Doesn't
Predator distress calls and dog barks scare geese; ultrasonics and most static noises don't. A naturalist's read of the deterrents that hold up in the field.
№ 10313 Jan 2026
Swan Symbolism: What the Bird Has Meant for 3,000 Years
From the Greek myth of Leda to Yeats to the silver swans on the Queen's River - a literary naturalist's read on what the swan has actually stood for through history.
№ 10212 Jan 2026
How Long Do Geese Live? Wild vs Domestic Lifespan
A naturalist's read on goose lifespan - the honest numbers for wild Canada geese (10-12 years average, 24+ for an exceptional survivor), the longer life of domestic breeds, and what kills geese in the wild.
№ 10112 Jan 2026
How to Keep Squirrels Out of an Owl Nest Box
The five things that actually keep squirrels out of an owl nest box - pole choice, baffle type, height, entrance hole, and timing. A field guide for backyard owl-watchers, with the products we use.
№ 10012 Jan 2026
How to Make Ducks Like You
Ducks bond with calm, low-postured humans who feed the right food. A naturalist's read on building trust with wild or backyard birds.
№ 9911 Jan 2026
Ducks' Feet: How Webbed Feet Actually Work
A duck's foot is a paddle, a brake, a thermal regulator, and a rudder. A naturalist's read of the anatomy and why it works in cold water.
№ 9811 Jan 2026
How Far Can Geese Fly in a Day? The Numbers Behind the V
A naturalist's answer to a question with a deceptively boring textbook reply - how far can a Canada goose actually fly in 24 hours? The honest range, what the V-formation does, and why flights of 1,500 miles in a day are real.
№ 9711 Jan 2026
How Long Can Ducks Stay Underwater?
Most diving ducks stay under for 10-30 seconds. Long-tailed Ducks hit 60+. A naturalist's read on dive times by species and the limits of the lung-air system.
№ 9610 Jan 2026
Do Swans Quack? No - Here's What They Actually Sound Like
A naturalist's guide to the actual sounds of swans - hiss, hum, snort, trumpet, whistle - and which species makes which. Spoiler: the 'mute' swan is anything but.
№ 9510 Jan 2026
Do Swans Swim in the Ocean? Rarely, And Reluctantly
Swans can swim in salt water and have salt glands to handle it - but they prefer fresh and stay close to shore. A naturalist's read on coastal swan ecology.
№ 9410 Jan 2026
Duck Predators: What Hunts Them and How to Stop It
The thirteen animals that hunt wild and domestic ducks - ranked by where they hunt (water, air, ground) - and the eight protections that actually work. A field naturalist's guide for pond owners and small-flock keepers.
№ 939 Jan 2026
Do Swans Carry Babies on Their Back? Yes - Here's Why
Mute Swan cygnets do ride on their parent's back, and there's a specific reason for it. A naturalist's read on why, when, and which swan species does it most.
№ 929 Jan 2026
Do Swans Have Predators? Yes, More Than People Think
A naturalist's read on swan predation - adult swans have surprisingly few enemies, but cygnets are vulnerable to a long list of predators. Which species hunt swans and at which life stage.
№ 919 Jan 2026
Do Swans Need Water to Take Off? Mostly, Yes
A naturalist's read on swan takeoff mechanics - why most swan species need a long water runway, the rare exceptions on land, and what the takeoff actually looks like.
№ 908 Jan 2026
Do Geese Keep Snakes Away? The Surprisingly Yes-ish Answer
A naturalist's read on whether keeping geese genuinely deters snakes - what the evidence says, which species are deterred, and whether it works as a property-management strategy.
№ 898 Jan 2026
Do Geese Need a Pond? Not Really
A naturalist's read on what geese actually need for water - a pond is nice but not essential. What works instead, and the bare minimum water access for a small flock.
№ 887 Jan 2026
Do Ducks Lay Eggs in Water? Almost Never, And Here's Why
Ducks build nests on dry ground or in tree cavities. A naturalist's read on why water-laying happens only by accident or distress.
№ 877 Jan 2026
Do Ducks Lay Unfertilized Eggs? Yes, And Often
Female ducks lay eggs whether a drake is present or not. A naturalist's read on when wild and domestic ducks produce unfertilised eggs, and what to do with them.
№ 867 Jan 2026
Do Geese Eat Fish? The Honest Answer
Geese are not piscivores - but they will eat a small fish under specific conditions. A naturalist's read on the rare cases where geese take fish, and why it almost never happens.
№ 856 Jan 2026
Diet of Mallard Ducks: What They Actually Eat
A naturalist's read on the Mallard's diet - the seven food categories that make up a wild Mallard's year, what changes seasonally, and why protein matters most in spring.
№ 846 Jan 2026
Do Ducks Eat Snakes? Yes, Small Ones
A naturalist's read on whether ducks really eat snakes - which species do it most, what size of snake they actually take, and why a duck pond reduces local snake numbers.
№ 836 Jan 2026
Do Ducks Have Beaks or Bills? Both Words, One Tool
Beak and bill are the same structure - ornithologists use 'bill' for ducks because of its flat, lamellated shape. A naturalist's read on the duck mouthpart.
№ 825 Jan 2026
Can Swans Eat Bread? Technically Yes, But Don't
Bread is the worst thing you can feed a swan. It causes angel wing, water pollution, and crop impaction. A naturalist's read of why, and what to feed instead.
№ 815 Jan 2026
Can Swans Land on Land? Yes, but Awkwardly
A naturalist's read on swan landings - swans can land on land but they prefer water, and the times they land on roads or lawns are often emergencies. What it looks like and what to do if a swan is grounded.
№ 804 Jan 2026
Can Swans Be Eaten? Legally, Mostly No
A naturalist's read on whether you can legally or sensibly eat a swan - the British royal protection rule, the modern UK and US legal status, and what swan actually tastes like historically.
№ 793 Jan 2026
Can Geese and Ducks Mate? Very Rarely, Yes
A naturalist's read on whether geese and ducks can produce hybrid offspring - what the rare documented cases show, why it almost never happens in the wild, and what such hybrids look like.
№ 783 Jan 2026
Can Geese and Swans Mate? Very Rarely
A naturalist's read on whether geese and swans can produce hybrid offspring - what the genetic and behavioural barriers are, and the rare documented cases where it has happened in captivity.
№ 773 Jan 2026
Can Geese Eat Bread? No, and Here's Why
Bread is the single worst common food fed to wild geese. A naturalist's read on why it causes angel wing in goslings, fouls park ponds, and what to feed instead.
№ 762 Jan 2026
Can Ducks Eat Rice? Yes - And the Wedding Myth is Wrong
The myth that uncooked rice harms birds is false. Cooked or raw, rice is safe for ducks. A naturalist's read of where the misconception came from.
№ 752 Jan 2026
Can Ducks Fly? Most Species Yes, At Surprising Speeds
Most wild duck species fly 40-60 mph for migration. Domestic breeds mostly can't. A naturalist's read on which ducks fly and how well.
№ 741 Jan 2026
Best Feeders for Ducks: What Actually Works at the Pond
Ducks won't use songbird feeders. They need low, open, easy-to-access setups. A naturalist's guide to the four feeder types that actually work for waterfowl.
№ 731 Jan 2026
Best Plants for Ducks: What to Grow Round a Pond
A naturalist's planting guide for a duck-friendly pond - the four plants ducks actually eat, the cover plants that keep ducklings alive, and where to put each one.
№ 721 Jan 2026
Can Baby Ducks Swim? Yes, But With Important Limits
Ducklings can swim within hours of hatching, but their feathers are not yet waterproof. A naturalist's read on how long they can safely be on water.
№ 7117 Aug 2023
Where to Hang a Suet Feeder for Optimal Bird Watching
If you love watching birds, then you know how important it is to have a suet feeder that will attract them to your backyard. However, choosing the right location for your suet feeder can be tricky....
№ 7024 Jul 2023
Water Birds in Maine: 24 Species of the Coast and Lakes
Maine's rocky coast and inland lakes hold 24 regular water birds, from Common Eider to Common Loon. A naturalist's read on what's where through the year.
№ 6924 Jul 2023
Water Birds in Minnesota: 26 Species That Make the Lakes
From the iconic loon to the recovering Trumpeter Swan, Minnesota's 11,000 lakes hold 26 regular water birds. A naturalist's read on what's where.
№ 6826 Jun 2023
Do Male Geese Sit on Eggs? The Gander's Role
Male geese do not actually sit on eggs. They typically stand guard near the nest and make sure that no one or animal comes close to it while their mates are laying or incubating their eggs. This is...
№ 6718 May 2023
How to Hold a Duck: A Beginner's Guide
Holding a duck may seem like a simple task, but it can be quite challenging, especially for those who are new to handling them. Ducks are delicate creatures that require proper handling to avoid...
№ 6617 May 2023
Do Ducks Have Noses? Understanding Duck Anatomy
Ducks are a common sight in many of our parks, ponds, and even backyards, but how much do we really know about these familiar feathered friends? One commonly asked question revolves around their...
№ 6517 May 2023
Duck Anatomy: An Illustrated Field Guide
A naturalist's illustrated tour of duck anatomy - the bill, the feet, the feathers, the digestive system, and the adaptations that make a duck a duck.
№ 6416 May 2023
Do Ducks Have Gizzards?
Have you ever watched a duck gobble up anything it comes across and wondered how it manages to digest such varied items? In the world of birds, especially waterfowl like ducks, the anatomy and...
№ 6316 May 2023
Do Ducks Smell? Why They Do and How to Fix It
If you have pet ducks, or are considering letting your ducks indoors, you may be wondering, do ducks smell bad? Ducks may emit an unpleasant smell due to a number of reasons. The most common is their...
№ 6216 May 2023
Will Ducks Sit on Dead Eggs?
Have you ever wondered about the maternal instincts of ducks ? Specifically, will a mother duck continue to sit on her eggs even if they are no longer viable? Yes, ducks can often continue to sit on...
№ 6115 May 2023
Do Ducks Attract Rats? How to Keep Them Away
While ducks and rats may seem like unlikely bedfellows, the truth is that these two animals often end up sharing the same space. Yes, ducks can potentially attract rats, but not directly. It's the...
№ 6015 May 2023
Do Male Ducks Quack? The Real Answer
When most people think of ducks, they picture the classic quacking sound. But do male ducks quack? Sort of but not really. Male ducks do quack, but their quacks are usually softer and raspier than...
№ 5915 May 2023
Duck Behavior Before Their Eggs Hatch
It's fascinating to observe the behavior of a female duck before her eggs hatch. While many people believe that all ducks are the same, it turns out that different types of ducks behave differently...
№ 5815 May 2023
How Do Ducks Float?
Many people have seen ducks, whether they're swimming in a pond or waddling around a park. But how do ducks stay afloat? Ducks float due to their buoyant bodies and waterproof feathers. Their bodies...
№ 5711 May 2023
12 Duck Breeds That Handle Cold Weather
A small-flock keeper's guide to the 12 duck breeds that handle winter genuinely well, the three that don't, and the housing and feed setup that keeps any duck alive through January.
№ 5610 May 2023
Can Ducks Eat Fruit? Yes, in Moderation
Ducks love fruit, but can they safely eat fruit? Yes, ducks can eat fruit, and many fruits can be a nutritious treat for them. Offer fruits like berries, seedless grapes, chopped apples, and melons...
№ 5510 May 2023
Do Ducks Eat Eggs?
Yes, ducks can and will eat eggs, especially if they are cracked or broken. Consuming eggs provides ducks with a rich source of protein and nutrients. However, if ducks develop a habit of eating...
№ 5410 May 2023
What Seeds Can Ducks Eat? (And Which to Avoid)
A balanced and varied diet is crucial for a duck's health, and feeding them the right seeds can provide essential nutrients that help them stay healthy and maintain a strong immune system. So what...
№ 5310 May 2023
Where Do Ducks Sleep? How and Where They Rest
Ducks are some of the most adaptable creatures on Earth. They can be found in almost any environment. It's not uncommon for migratory ducks in North America to winter in the arid climes of Nevada and...
№ 529 May 2023
DIY Duckling Food: How to Make Nutritious Feed at Home
Ducklings require a balanced and nutritious diet to grow into healthy adult ducks. While commercial duck feed is widely available, some duck owners prefer to make their own food at home. Creating DIY...
№ 519 May 2023
Plants Poisonous to Ducks
Ducks are foraging animals that enjoy a variety of plants as part of their natural diet. However, not all plants are safe for ducks to consume. Some common garden plants can be toxic to ducks,...
№ 504 May 2023
Do Ducks Eat Mosquitoes?
Are you tired of pesky mosquitoes ruining your outdoor activities? Did you know that ducks might just be your secret weapon? It turns out that ducks love to eat mosquitoes and other insects, making...
№ 493 May 2023
Can Ducks Eat Peppers? Yes, Bell Not Spicy
Peppers are a popular and flavorful vegetable that many of us enjoy, but can ducks safely eat them too? As a duck owner, you want to ensure that your feathered friends are receiving a healthy and...
№ 483 May 2023
Can Ducks Eat Squash? Yes, Seeds Removed
While ducks are known for their love of aquatic plants and insects, introducing some variety into their diet can also provide important nutrients. But what about squash? This colorful vegetable is a...
№ 473 May 2023
Do Ducks Eat Algae?
Ducks are fascinating creatures with unique dietary needs. While many people may assume that ducks subsist on a diet of bread and crackers, the reality is much more complex. One food source that may...
№ 462 May 2023
Do Ducks Eat Grasshoppers? Yes, and Other Insects
Ducks are highly adaptable to their environments. They live in a wide range of habitats including the dry deserts, cold north and wet tropics. They are known for their foraging ability, which means...
№ 452 May 2023
Ducks with Long Necks
Ducks are some of the most delightful creatures on the planet, and ducks with long necks are no exception. With their graceful, elegant, and majestic beauty, they will surely capture the hearts and...
№ 442 May 2023
5 Ducks with Orange Beaks
Female Mallard, Black-bellied Whistling-Duck, Muscovy, and others. A naturalist's read on the orange-billed ducks and how to tell them apart.
№ 4312 Apr 2023
Ducks with Brown Heads
Did you know that some duck species have brown heads? It's true, and ducks with brown heads are some of the most captivating and interesting birds you can spot in the wild. Ducks with brown heads...
№ 4212 Apr 2023
Ducks with Green Heads
Ducks with green heads , are a captivating subject for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Their distinctive green head, found predominantly in males, sets them apart in the avian world and...
№ 4111 Apr 2023
31 Types of Ducks in New York
New York is one of the most populous and diverse states in the country. It is often thought of as a melting pot, with its long history of immigration and bustling metropolis of New York City. But...
№ 4011 Apr 2023
31 Types of Ducks in Wyoming
Wyoming is a state located in the western United States. Its diverse landscape includes the Rocky Mountains, the Great Plains, and several national parks. The weather in Wyoming can be extreme. Big...
№ 395 Apr 2023
American Wigeon (Mareca americana)
The American wigeon is a medium-sized duck native to North America. It is also known as the baldplate due to the white crown or white stripe of the male duck that resembles a bald man's head. As a...
№ 385 Apr 2023
Common Merganser (Mergus merganser)
The common merganser, also known as the goosander in Europe, is a large sea duck belonging to the taxonomic family of Anatidae. It has three recognized subspecies which include M. m. merganser, M. m....
№ 375 Apr 2023
Harlequin Duck (Histrionicus histrionicus)
The harlequin duck, scientific name Histrionicus histrionicus, takes its name from the iconic character of Harlequin in the Commedia dell'arte, a form of Italian theatre that emerged during the 16th...
№ 365 Apr 2023
Hooded Merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus)
The hooded merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus) is the only merganser species native to North America. It is the only surviving species in the genus Lophodytes, which is derived from the Greek words...
№ 355 Apr 2023
Masked Duck (Nomonyx dominicus)
The masked duck is a small, stocky waterbird found in the wetlands and swamps of Central and South America. Its scientific name, Nomonyx dominicus, refers to its secretive nature and distribution in...
№ 345 Apr 2023
Mexican Duck (Anas diazi)
The Mexican duck (Anas diazi) is a dabbling duck native to Mexico and parts of the southwestern United States, making them North American birds. These ducks are also known as Mexican mallards due to...
№ 335 Apr 2023
Northern Pintail (Anas acuta)
The northern pintail is a large dabbling duck with a wide geographical distribution. It occurs throughout the northern regions of Europe, North America, the Middle East and the Palearctic. The...
№ 326 Feb 2023
Do Geese Eat Mice? The Surprising Answer
Geese are fascinating creatures with diverse diets. They eat mostly aquatic plants in the wild, including roots, stems, leaves, and seeds. They will eat small insects, worms, crustaceans, and fish as...
№ 313 Feb 2023
Can Geese Eat Cabbage? Yes, Raw or Chopped
Geese are omnivorous animals, meaning they eat both plants and animals. In the wild, they typically feed on a variety of items including aquatic plants, grains, insects, amphibians, small reptiles...
№ 303 Feb 2023
Can Geese Eat Celery? Yes, Chopped Small
Geese are often seen eating grass and other plant material, but did you know they also like celery? Celery is a healthy vegetable that is high in nutrients. It is high in vitamins, minerals, fiber,...
№ 293 Feb 2023
Do Canadian Geese Migrate?
Canada geese are a migratory species. This means they typically spend each year's spring and summer months in the northern parts of the United States and Canada. In the winter, many flocks of Canada...
№ 283 Feb 2023
Geese Behaviour: A Naturalist's Field Guide to the Honkers
Why geese hiss at you, what the V-formation actually does, and how to read a Canada goose's body language. A field naturalist's notes on what's really going on with the most misunderstood bird in the park.
№ 273 Feb 2023
Goose Mating Season: Courtship and Nesting
As winter draws near, many animals begin to prepare for the long cold months ahead. For geese, this means finding a mate. Goose breeding season typically extends from mid-winter to early spring....
№ 263 Feb 2023
Housing for Geese: A Practical Build Guide
A small-flock keeper's guide to goose housing - what geese actually need, the dimensions that work, the materials that don't rot, and the predator-proofing that matters most.
№ 253 Feb 2023
How Many Geese Are in the World?
The exact number of geese in the world is unknown. But the current estimates on goose population worldwide are between 39.0 and 39.2 million wild geese in the northern hemisphere alone. These birds...
№ 243 Feb 2023
Snow Goose Calls: The Sounds and What They Mean
The first thing that comes to mind when you think of goose calls is their loud honking sound. But did you know that there are different types of calls depending on the situation? To name a few, there...
№ 231 Feb 2023
Can Swans Die of a Broken Heart?
Swans are often regarded as symbols of love and devotion. Many people believe that monogamous species could pass away from a broken heart if their mate dies. But can these birds actually die from a...
№ 221 Feb 2023
Can Swans Kill You? The Honest Answer
Swans are often seen as symbols of grace and beauty, but can these beautiful birds kill you? The short answer is no. But swan attacks could lead to accidental deaths. Although swans are not typically...
№ 211 Feb 2023
Do Swans Have Gills? Swan Anatomy and Breathing
A gill, made up of thin membranes filled with capillaries, is an organ in aquatic animals that helps them absorb oxygen and release carbon dioxide into the environment. This organ allows marine...
№ 201 Feb 2023
Do Swans Really Sing When They Die? The Swan Song
Have you ever heard the iconic story about swans singing their swan song when they die? It's often referred to as a beautiful, melodic farewell to the world – but do swans actually sing a song as...
№ 191 Feb 2023
Why Do Swans Swim in Circles?
Watching mute swans swimming and floating in the local park can be a peaceful and serene experience. The grace and beauty of the feathers of these waterfowl as they glide through the water can be...
№ 1828 Nov 2022
All About the Giant Canada Goose
There's a good chance you've seen a giant Canada Goose flying around, waddling on the ground, or swimming in the water. These birds are pretty common in North America, but there's more to them than...
№ 1728 Nov 2022
Egyptian Goose (Alopochen aegyptiaca)
The Egyptian goose, or Alopochen aegyptiaca, is a member of the Anatidae family, including ducks and swans. Native to areas located in the Nile Valley and regions to the south of the Sahara Desert,...
№ 1626 Nov 2022
Ross’s Goose (Anser Rossii)
Ross's goose is the smallest of the white geese that breed in North America. It is a pure white goose with black wingtips and a short neck. It shares many characteristics with the snow geese,...
№ 1528 Oct 2022
Do Geese Eat Snakes? Yes, Smaller Ones
Geese are fascinating animals. They are known for their impressive flying abilities and loud honking, but do you know what they eat? Believe it or not, geese will eat snakes! We investigate other...
№ 1421 Sept 2022
Geese in Pennsylvania (8 Species + ID Chart)
When most people think of geese, they probably picture the large flocks that migrate through Pennsylvania during the fall and winter. But there are several different species of geese that can be...
№ 139 Aug 2022
Geese in Colorado (6 Species + Guide)
Welcome to the captivating world of geese in Colorado! With its diverse landscapes and abundant wetlands, Colorado serves as a haven for various species of geese. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to...
№ 1225 Jul 2022
Do Geese Lay Eggs in Water? Where Geese Nest
Geese live near bodies of water such as ponds and lakes. So it is understandable that many people wonder if they lay eggs in the water. Geese do not lay their eggs in water. They will build a nest on...
№ 1120 Jul 2022
Do Geese Lay Eggs Every Day?
Geese usually lay an egg every one or two days until they have a clutch size of around 2-10 eggs. They lay their eggs just after their breeding season. Once all of the eggs have been laid, females...
№ 1018 Jul 2022
Do Geese Abandon Their Eggs? What Nesting Geese Do
Mother geese are very protective of their eggs and it is rare for them to abandon them. In fact, most of the time mother geese will sit on their eggs until they hatch. If the mother goose does leave...
№ 914 Jul 2022
Do Geese Have Ears? How Geese Hear
The answer is yes. Geese do have ears! Even though they lack external appendages, they can still hear because they have ears. Hearing is the second most important sense next to sight for waterfowl...
№ 813 Jul 2022
How Do Geese Decide Who Leads?
Geese flying in formation during their annual migration is often used as leadership lessons in many leadership seminars, and rightfully so. As humans, we can definitely learn many leadership...
№ 710 Jul 2022
Do Geese Keep Foxes Away? Goose Predators Explained
No, geese do not keep foxes away. Geese are actually prey for these predators, so if anything, they would attract this predator rather than deter them. Do Foxes Attack Geese? Foxes are opportunistic...
№ 64 Jul 2022
Geese in South Carolina: 3 Species to Know
If you're living in South Carolina, you may have noticed an increase in the geese population over the past few years. While these birds can be beautiful to see, they can also be quite troublesome. In...
№ 51 Jul 2022
How Long Does It Take for Goose Eggs to Hatch?
On average, goose eggs take about 28 to 35 days to hatch, depending on the specific species. The African and Chinese geese breeds typically have a shorter incubation period of around 28 days, while...
№ 427 Jun 2022
Can Geese Carry Their Babies? Yes, on Their Backs
Waterfowl live all over the world and can be found on every continent except Antarctica. One of the largest concentrations of waterfowl especially geese is in North America , where they are an...
№ 327 Jun 2022
Can Geese Eat Bananas? Yes, Peeled and Ripe
Geese love bananas! These nutritious fruits are packed with magnesium, fiber, potassium, and various Vitamin B-complexes, all of which are great for these birds. Additionally, bananas have soft flesh...
№ 221 Jun 2022
Geese in Arizona (Full Guide & ID Chart)
When it comes to geese, Arizona is home to a remarkable variety of these majestic birds. From the soaring skies to the serene lakeshores, geese gracefully traverse the diverse landscapes of the Grand...
№ 118 Jun 2022
North American Geese: A Field Guide to the Seven Species
A naturalist's identification guide to the seven goose species that breed or winter in North America - which is which, where they migrate, and the differences most field guides understate.