Wood
DuckWood Duck -- South Dakota Birds
| Length: 18 inches | Wingspan: 28 - 30 inches | Seasonality: Summer |
| ID Keys: Male unmistakable, female dull with white eyepatch and white chin | ||
Wood
Duck
Aix sponsa
Wood Ducks are probably the most gaudy duck found in the state. Unlike most duck species, they nest in trees. They have been increasing in numbers, probably due to the huge numbers of nest boxes built especially for them. They are more common in the eastern half of the state.
Habitat: Shallow lakes, ponds, marshes surrounded by trees.
Diet: Mostly vegetable matter such as aquatic plants and seeds, also tadpoles, insects, and snails.
Nesting: April through June
Breeding map: Breeding bird survey map
Song: Wood Duck call
Migrations: Winters in the southeastern United States, the Pacific Coast, and Mexico.
Birdhouses: Will use nest boxes built for Wood Ducks.
Similar Species: Female similar to other female ducks
Status: In decline at the start of the 20th century, they've expanded in numbers and range, in large part due to the numbers of nest boxes created.
Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Wood Duck
2) Cornell Lab of Ornithology - Wood Duck
Photo Information: April 17th, 2004 -- Madison Waterfowl Production Area -- Terry L. Sohl
Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Wood Duck photos.
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| South Dakota Status: Common migrant and summer resident in the eastern part of the state, uncommon in the west. Rare in winter statewide. |
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Please mail any comments/suggestions/additional links for this page to: Terry L. Sohl
This page was last edited on 02/03/08
