Wood Duck

Aix sponsa

Ducklings jump from their tree-hole nest the day after hatching, sometimes from over 15 meters up, and land unhurt.

Where to see it for real: Uses nest boxes near water; it nearly vanished a century ago and came back thanks to boxes like these.

Lives in the Lake and wetland habitat (North American lakes and marshes).

Wood Duck facts

Family: Ducks, geese and swans
Length: 20 in (50 cm)
Wingspan: 28 in (70 cm)
Weight: 23 oz (650 g)
Diet: Seeds, acorns, water plants and insects.
Range: Eastern North America and the Pacific Coast; winters in the southern United States.
Nest: A tree hole or nest box near water.
Song: Females give a squealing "oo-eek"; males a thin, rising whistle.
Active: at dawn, by day and at dusk
Status: Least Concern on the IUCN Red List: widespread and not at risk.