Glacial & backyard waters
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.
264 dispatches filed under this habitat
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Blackberries are safe, palatable, and naturally part of what geese forage along hedgerows. The flesh is rich in antioxidants, fibre and vitamin C. Offer whole or halved, 1-2 times a week as a treat alongside the everyday diet.
Swans can eat plain unsalted peanuts - never the salted snack variety. Chop or buy peanut pieces to remove the choking hazard. As with all nuts, they're high-fat treat food, not a staple. Skip them entirely if you're feeding at a park pond.
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.
Ducks can eat tiny amounts of natural unsalted peanut butter, but it's mostly not worth the trouble. The salt in standard supermarket peanut butter is genuinely toxic to waterfowl, and the sticky texture risks beak feathers. Stick to cracked corn for everyday treats.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Swans have good low-light vision - much better than humans - but they're not true nocturnal birds. They're crepuscular: most active at dawn and dusk. In genuine darkness they roost and rely on hearing. Here's the eye biology behind it.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Apple flesh and skin are excellent duck treats. Apple seeds contain amygdalin, which breaks down to cyanide - a real risk if a duck eats the core. Chop apple into small pieces, remove the core entirely, and a few times a week is fine.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Red-breasted Nuthatches are conifer specialists - they want spruce or pine within sight of your feeder, sunflower hearts or suet, and a pitch-rimmed nest cavity. Get those three and you'll have one of the most charming small birds in North America working your trees upside-down.
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.
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.
Chickadees are the most willing-to-trust songbird in North America. A sunflower-seed feeder, a small nest box, and a dense shrub will give you a resident pair you can feed from your hand inside a season.
A working backyard bird station is five feeder types and three plant layers. Here's the per-feeder species mapping (who eats what), the seed inventory, and the cleaning rhythm that keeps the whole thing healthy.
Goldfinches are seed specialists with strong preferences: nyjer, sunflower hearts, and the right perch height. Plant a coneflower bed, hang a sock feeder, and you'll have them in a fortnight.
Ducks make excellent pets for the right person and absolute disasters for the wrong one. Here's the honest breakdown: noise, mess, lifespan, housing, predation risk, and whether your garden, neighbours and patience can take it.
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.
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.
Female mallards quack; males rasp. Each call has a job: contact, alarm, courtship, or location. A naturalist's read on the duck vocabulary.
Ducks standing on each other is almost always mating behaviour. A naturalist's read on what's actually happening and when to be concerned.
Ducks head-bob to communicate excitement, signal courtship readiness, and confirm species identity. A naturalist's read of when it means what.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Ducks bond with calm, low-postured humans who feed the right food. A naturalist's read on building trust with wild or backyard birds.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Ducks build nests on dry ground or in tree cavities. A naturalist's read on why water-laying happens only by accident or distress.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A naturalist's read on swan cold tolerance - what they can handle, the anatomy that lets them stand on ice, and the conditions that actually do kill swans in winter.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Oats are a nutritious snack for backyard birds. Many types of wild birds like cardinals, grouses, pigeons, finches, blue jays, and blackbirds really enjoy eating oats. Oats are an excellent source of...
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....
Welcome to the vibrant world of water birds in Missouri. Nestled in America's heartland, Missouri's diverse habitats, from the rippling waves of the Mississippi to the serene ponds of its national...
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.
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.
Domesticated and wild ducks, with their distinctive waddle and webbed feet, are a common sight in many parts of the world. While most people know that ducks lay eggs, many are unaware they can do so...
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...
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...
Taking care of ducks as pets requires understanding their needs. Provide a safe, predator-proof coop for shelter. Ducks need plenty of water, not just for drinking but also for swimming and grooming....
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...
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.
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...
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...
The duck's webbed feet are one of the most interesting and distinctive body parts. There are numerous names for duck feet, but what is their official name? Duck feet are commonly referred to as...
Ducks are among the fascinating creatures around. Although they are so well-known, there is still much to learn about these animals. Like, when can ducks go outside? Ducklings can generally start to...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
One of the behaviors pet ducks that pique the interest of many people is their tail wagging. Why does duck tail wagging mean? Ducks wag their tails as a form of communication and expression. It's...
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.
Ducks are delightful creatures with their own unique personalities, and one of the joys of keeping ducks as pets or in your backyard is the opportunity to give them a special name. Whether you're...
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...
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...
The falcated duck (Mareca falcata), also called the falcated teal, is a dabbling duck native to eastern Asia. It breeds in eastern Russia, northern Japan, northeastern China and North Korea. It is a...
The mating season for ducks typically occurs during springtime. During this time, male ducks will begin to court female ducks in an attempt to win their favor. But how exactly do ducks mate? Duck...
Ducks are well-known for their hardiness and ability to thrive in various environments. These birds are adapted to a wide range of temperatures and can be found on every continent except Antarctica....
Backyard ducks are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners who want to enjoy the benefits of raising their own poultry. However, many people are unsure about what to feed their feathered...
Have you every looked at a flock of ducks and wondered, what is a group of ducks called? Wonder no more! A group of ducks can be called a raft, team, or paddling when they are in water. When they are...
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...
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...
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...
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,...
Ducks are lovely creatures that can be found in many parks, ponds, and lakes around the world and feeding ducks can be a joyous activity. However, not all foods are safe for ducks to eat. In fact,...
Ducks are fascinating creatures with unique physical adaptations that allow them to thrive in their environment. One of the most interesting questions about ducks is whether or not they have teeth....
Geese are the largest birds in Rhode Island, and several different species can be found here. Some geese prefer to stay near the coast, while multiple species of birds migrate inland during the...
Ducks have long been revered for their grace, beauty, and ability to adapt to their surroundings. In many cultures, ducks have been imbued with symbolism and meaning, representing a range of traits...
Swans are known for their grace and beauty , but did you know that these majestic birds are also omnivores? This means that their diet is diverse and includes a variety of plant and animal matter....
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...
If you're looking for a natural way to control tick populations, you may be surprised to learn that ducks can actually help. Ducks are known to eat a variety of insects, including ticks, which can...
Chocolate is a beloved treat enjoyed by many, but as a duck owner, you may be wondering whether it's safe to share this indulgence with your feathered friends. We'll take a closer look at the...
Pears are a sweet and juicy fruit that many people enjoy, but are they safe for ducks to eat? We take a closer look at whether pears are a healthy addition to a duck's diet and explore any potential...
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...
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...
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...
Ducks are fascinating creatures and one of their favorite activities is swimming and diving for food. In the wild, they have a diverse diet that includes aquatic plants, insects, and small fish. One...
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...
Have you ever looked at a duck and wondered how it hears? You might be surprised to learn that ducks do have ears, but they don't look quite like the ears of mammals. Yes, ducks have ears, but they...
Ducks are pretty common in our nation's parks, gliding in the water and feeding in ponds and lakes. But many people have wondered — do ducks have knees? Despite the common perception that ducks don't...
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on duck identification and characteristics! This resource aims to help you recognise and appreciate the diverse physical features and unique traits of ducks....
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...
Female Mallard, Black-bellied Whistling-Duck, Muscovy, and others. A naturalist's read on the orange-billed ducks and how to tell them apart.
Redhead, Canvasback, and Common Pochard drakes all have red eyes. A naturalist's read on how to tell them apart at a glance.
Ducks are a common sight in ponds, lakes, and even backyard pools. These feathered creatures are not only adorable, but they also play an important role in the ecosystem. If you're lucky enough to...
Ducks are a common sight in ponds and lakes around the world. But have you ever come across a duck with a bright orange head? These striking birds are not only beautiful to look at but also...
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...
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...
Montana is called Big Sky Country, and it’s easy to see why. The state’s landscape is characterized by sweeping arid grasslands, rolling prairies, and towering mountains. Two of the most iconic...
Nevada is a large state. It is known for being very dry. In fact, Nevada is the nation’s most arid state. However, the state has diverse landscapes with many birding locations. It has forests,...
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...
North Carolina has many different landscapes, including tall mountains, rolling hills, tidal rivers, beaches, estuaries, swamps, marshes and forests. The state has eleven wildlife refuges and ten...
A naturalist's guide to Oregon's 39 duck species - the year-round residents, the winter visitors from the Arctic, and the four locations where you can see most of them in a single trip.
Despite being the country’s 6th most populated state, more than half of Pennsylvania’s total land area is forest. So it’s not surprising that the Keystone State is home to many wildlife species...
South Carolina's mix of wetlands, lakes, and rivers provide a variety of habitats for a range of bird species, including a diverse group of ducks. From the majestic Wood Duck to the elusive...
Tennessee's mix of wetlands, lakes, and rivers provides a variety of habitats for a range of bird species, including a diverse group of ducks. From the graceful Gadwall to the striking Hooded...
Texas's mix of wetlands, reservoirs, and lakes provide a variety of habitats for a range of bird species, including a diverse group of ducks. From the iconic Mallard to the stunning Wood Duck, each...
Wisconsin lies directly in one of the most important migration routes — the Mississippi Flyway. Naturally, all kinds of birds, including ducks, use the state’s forests and wetlands, such as the...
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...
The American black duck (Anas rubripes) is a large dabbling duck native to North America that stands out in the duck family for its distinctive size and coloration. The male and female of this...
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...
The common eider is a sea duck, also known as the St. Cuthbert's duck or Cuddy's duck. It is the largest duck in the Northern Hemisphere. It has a wide population distribution, with breeding ranges...
The common goldeneye (Bucephala clangula), also known as the American goldeneye, is a medium-sized diving duck native to North America, northern Europe and East Asia. The common goldeneye is a...
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....
A naturalist's identification guide to the Common Shelduck - distinctive bottle-green head, chestnut breast band, red bill knob. Where to find it, how it differs from other ducks, and the British coast as its stronghold.
Alabama is a top destination for birders. The Heart of Dixie is home to many different bird species. Alabama’s diverse landscape also provides a wide variety of bird habitats, including forests,...
The state of California is home to a wide variety of duck species. Some ducks are uncommon, others are year-round residents. These waterfowl creatures can be found in different parts of The Golden...
In Georgia, there are 33 different breeds of ducks, making them a common sight. Waterfowl hunters and bird watchers need to know the differences between duck breeds. There are pictures and...
Did you know that 35 different duck breeds call Illinois home? While some people think of Mallards and Canadian Geese when they think of waterfowl, there are quite a few different types of ducks in...
Indiana has a diverse landscape, including farmland, forests, and wetlands. Diverse habitats make it an excellent place for birders to spot ducks. Duck hunting is prevalent in the wetlands, providing...
There are 35 different breeds of ducks in the state of Kansas, despite it being landlocked. From small ponds to large rivers, the state’s numerous waterways are a haven for ducks. Additionally,...
Birding is a popular pastime in Louisiana for both residents and visitors. It is home to a wide variety of bird species, including several rare and endangered species. The Louisiana landscape also...
Maryland’s diverse landscapes and abundance of wildlife make it an ideal destination for birders and waterfowl hunters. Every nature lover can find something to enjoy in Maryland, from the...
Massachusetts is known for many things, from its rich history to its vibrant present. The state is also home to various migratory birds, including ducks, geese, and swans. These birds typically...
A naturalist's overview of the 40+ duck species that breed or winter in North America - the dabblers, the divers, the sea ducks, the perching ducks, and how to sort them in the field.
The garganey is a small dabbling duck that is found in Europe and the Palearctic. It is a vagrant in North America, where it is sometimes mistaken for the blue-winged teal. Scientific Name : Spatula...
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...
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...
The king eider (Somateria spectabilis) is a large sea duck that spends most of its time in coastal environments at high latitudes. It breeds in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions of North America,...
The lesser scaup is a small diving duck commonly found in North America. It is most commonly found in the northern and central United States and southern Canada. The lesser scaup is sometimes known...
The mallard is a large dabbling duck native to much of Europe, Asia, and North America. It is one of the most common and recognizable ducks in the world. It got its common name from the Old French...
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...
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...
The Muscovy duck is a large duck native to Mexico, Central America, and South America. They are also known as Pato Criollo in Spanish. Male Muscovy ducks are easily distinguished from females by...
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...
The ruddy shelduck (Tadorna ferruginea), also known as the Brahminy duck, is a distinctive waterfowl that breeds in southeastern Europe and Central Asia and wintering in the Indian subcontinent and...
The smew is a small diving duck and the only extant species of the genus Mergullus. It is often grouped together with the genus Mergus members but is closely related to the goldeneyes. It is not...
The wood duck is a perching duck native to North America. It has sharp claws for perching in trees and logs. The male wood duck is a colorful and striking bird with a white belly, distinctive crest...
Are you curious about what geese can and can't eat? Do you want to provide the best diet for your feathered friends? Look no further! You may be surprised to learn that oats, often seen as a staple...
Geese are classified as omnivores because they eat both plants and animals. However, their diet consists mostly of aquatic plants, leaves and grasses. Fruits and vegetables can also be a part of...
Geese prefer to eat grass, plant matter and aquatic plants. If these herbivorous birds eat almost exclusively plant material, why are they considered omnivores? Yes, geese are omnivores and do eat...
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...
Geese are fascinating creatures, known for their honking calls, webbed feet, and sociable nature. But when it comes to feeding these feathered friends, many pet owners have questions. For example,...
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...
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,...
The Canada goose is a large and distinctive goose species native to North America's arctic and temperate regions. It is easily recognized by its black head, white cheeks, brown body, and large size....
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...
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.
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....
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.
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...
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...
While most birds sleep at night, their sleeping habits differ from most mammals. Geese, in particular, are well-known for their unusual sleeping habits. So, where do geese sleep? Key Points on Where...
Swans are large water birds with long necks and bodies. They are known for their snow-white plumage, which is why they are often associated with grace and beauty. But do black swans exist? While the...
Swans are majestic birds known for their graceful movements and elegant appearance. Their long necks and snow-white feathers make them a sight to behold on any body of water. These birds have a...
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...
Swans belong to the waterfowl family Anatidae and the genus Cygnus. These birds are known for their elegant appearance and grace in the water. With their long necks and distinctive white feathers,...
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...
Swans are majestic and elegant birds that have long been admired for their beauty and grace. They are often associated with romance and love, and their presence in a water body can add elegance and...
It's a question that may have you scratching your head. Can you really eat swan eggs? While most of us would never consider eating a swan, the answer is a surprising yes! Swan eggs are edible and...
Swans can exhibit aggressive behavior toward humans and other wildlife during the nesting season. Nesting swans are particularly protective of their nests and young and will defend them against...
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...
Out of the three swan species found in North America , the trumpeter and tundra swans are migratory, while the non-native, introduced mute swan is non-migratory. These beautiful birds undertake...
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...
Dreams involving swans often represent a beautiful meaning, whether it be a sign of love, purity, power, grace, or a message of wisdom. Swans appear in dreams to provide insight and understanding of...
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...
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...
The barnacle goose is a species of goose that is known for its distinctive plumage, rounded head and small size. This remarkable bird belongs to the genus Branta, which contains several other black...
The Canada goose (Branta Canadensis) is one of the most common North American birds. It is easily recognized for its long neck and large body, with brown and black feathers on its back and white...
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,...
The Hawaiian goose or Nene is a medium-sized goose endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. This endangered species of goose is closely related to the giant Canada goose. The nene was designated as Hawaii's...
Pink-footed geese are medium-sized goose species that are native to the tundra lakes and wet meadows of Greenland, Iceland, and Svalbard. The species is included in the subfamily Anserinae, within...
The Taiga Bean-goose is one of the rarest birds in North America. It was first observed in 1804, and it has been spotted only a handful of times since then. It is also known as the Bean Goose, Jack...
The Tundra Bean Goose belongs to the genus Anser, including other notable geese such as the Taiga Bean Goose and the Greylag Goose. Until 2007, the tundra bean goose had been considered a subspecies...
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,...
The snow goose is known for its striking white plumage and thick, downy undercoat. This species exists in both light and dark morphs, the latter often referred to as the blue goose. Snow geese are...
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...
Birds are fascinating creatures and they can be found in many different places. If you're a bird watcher, Michigan is definitely a place you want to check out. There are geese to be seen everywhere!...
Geese in Montana are a common sight, especially in the springtime. They can be seen flying north to their nesting grounds, or swimming in the ponds and lakes that dot the state. Although they are not...
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...
If you're a fan of waterfowl, Illinois is the place to be! With two major flyways intersecting in the state, it's a hotspot for bird migration. And one of the stars of Illinois' avian show is the...
Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the wild heart of Iowa as we explore the fascinating lives of its resident and migratory geese. From the ubiquitous Canada Goose to the seasonal spectacle...
Anyone who has spent time around Oregon's waterways will know that there is an abundance of geese. Geese can be found in every corner of the state, and they come in all shapes and sizes. There are...
Welcome to the verdant state of Kentucky, an ornithological wonder known for its remarkable array of geese. Whether you're a seasoned bird watcher or a curious novice, exploring the presence of these...
Vermont has no less than eight different species of geese calling our state home! Geese can be found in all corners of Vermont, but some areas are better for bird-watching than others like Dead Creek...
If you're from Hawaii, you know there are different types of geese that live here. And if you visit one of the nature reserves or parks, you'll see just how many geese call Hawaii home. But what do...
If you're a bird enthusiast, you'll love West Virginia. Geese are abundant here and Waterfowl hunting is also popular in West Virginia, so if you're looking for a thrill, this is the place to be....
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...
Unfortunately, ducks can be preyed upon by birds of prey like hawks. Hawks often attack ducks because they see them as an easy meal. Ducks that are not protected from hawks can quickly become...
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...
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...
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...
Geese are large ground-nesting birds that are known to move eggs between nests. This can be done by rolling the eggs around with their bills or beaks. When they move eggs from one nest to another, it...
It's a common misconception that Canadian geese only eat grass. In fact, they are omnivorous on occasion and will eat a variety of things, including bugs. The Canada goose (Branta canadensis) is...
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...
If you're raising geese on your farm, you might be wondering about their dietary needs. In particular, do geese need more niacin? The answer is yes, geese require more niacin in their diet than...
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...
It's not uncommon to see birds mate for life. When most people think of geese, the first thing that comes to mind is the image of a long line of geese flying in perfect V formation . But you may not...
Geese flying in formation is a beautiful sight to behold. It's also an amazing example of how teamwork can lead to increased efficiency and success. The geese flying V formation is so efficient...
The Canadian goose is known for its black head and white cheeks. These birds are among the few animals that adapted well to changes in their habitat. You can find them near bodies of water such as...
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...
Canada Geese will choose nest sites on islands, the edges of wetlands, or occasionally in trees. Nests are typically made out of vegetation and can be located in various places, including on the...
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...
Did you know that Oklahoma is home to a variety of geese species ? In this definitive guide, we will discuss the different types of geese that can be found in the Sooner State, as well as their...
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...
Ducks and geese are two types of waterfowl that generally get along well together. Geese are larger than ducks and have a more aggressive personality, but they both enjoy swimming and foraging in the...
Geese feed on all kinds of solid, tough food. And the teeth-like structures on their tongues and beaks help them do that. They can pull roots, stems, grasses, and water plants out of the ground...
There are five geese species that call Arkansas home. In this guide, we will provide a complete guide to the different types of geese found in Arkansas. We'll discuss their physical characteristics,...
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...
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...
Geese are generally calm and non-aggressive. But they can become aggressive when defending their territory. When a goose feels threatened, it may lash out with its beak or wings. While geese rarely...
Whether you are interested in geese watching or hunting, in this guide, we will provide a complete guide to the geese in Alabama from the different types of geese that can be found in the state, to...
This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about Geese in Alaska from the types to their biology, behavior, and ecology. We will cover topics such as where to find them, what...
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...
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.