The Wood Duck, known scientifically as Aix sponsa, is a medium-sized perching duck native to North America. It is one of the most splendidly plumaged waterfowl on the continent. Adult Wood Ducks measure from 47 to 54 cm in length with a wingspan of 66 to 73 cm, and weigh between 454 and 862 grams. The male is particularly striking with iridescent plumage and red eyes, complemented by a distinctive white flare down the neck. The female is more subdued in coloration, featuring a white eye-ring and a whitish throat. Both sexes boast crested heads, and their speculum is an iridescent blue-green with a white trailing edge.
To identify the male Wood Duck, look for its multicolored iridescent plumage and red eyes, along with the white flare down its neck. The female can be recognized by her white eye-ring and whitish throat. Both sexes have crested heads, which are a key feature for identification.
Wood Ducks inhabit wooded swamps, shallow lakes, marshes, ponds, and creeks. They show a preference for areas with ample tree cover close to water bodies.
These ducks are found throughout the eastern United States, the west coast, parts of southern Canada, and the west coast of Mexico. Northern populations migrate south for the winter, while birds in the southern range tend to be year-round residents.
