AI overview
The wood duck is a colorful North American duck species known for its striking plumage and ability to perch in trees and nest in cavities high above the ground. It matters because it serves as an indicator of healthy wetland habitats and has become a conservation success story after populations were nearly depleted by hunting in the early 1900s.
AI-generated from the Wikipedia summary — may contain errors.
Species
wood duck
Species
- PhylumChordata
- ClassAves
- OrderAnseriformes
- FamilyAnatidae
Habitatfreshwater
The male Wood Duck in breeding plumage is arguably the most colorful duck in North America. Adorned with an iridescent-green head and crest, red bill, rust-colored breast and buff flanks, it is unmistakable anywhere on the continent. However, this is not always the case. Non-breeding males lose their bright colors and become drab brown-gray, resembling female and juvenile Wood Ducks. This is a medium-sized duck species (17-20 inches) which is slightly smaller than the more familiar Mallard. This species breeds across much of North America, especially in the east. In the west, the Wood Duck breeds more locally, but may be encountered on the Pacific coast of California and in the northwest. Many Wood Ducks in the east are permanent residents, but populations breeding in Canada migrate short distances south into the U.S. In the west, Wood Ducks are more migratory, moving into the southern plains and parts of the southwest in winter. This species may be found at all times of the year on wetlands, lakes, and streams. Wood Ducks nest in tree cavities (often old Pileated Woodpecker nest holes), and pairs of this species must breed in wetlands near forests to ensure availability of nest si
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Wikidata facts
Article
Several wood ducks calling
The wood duck or Carolina duck (Aix sponsa) is a partially migratory species of perching duck found in North America. The male is one of the most colorful North American waterfowls.