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Wood Duck
Aix sponsa
Widely considered North America's most beautiful duck, the male Wood Duck is a kaleidoscope of iridescent greens, purples, and blues with bold white stripes and a swept-back crest. Found in wooded swamps and ponds across eastern North America, it nests in tree cavities. Day-old ducklings leap from nest holes up to 50 feet high, bouncing safely on the ground below.
Fun Fact
Wood Duck chicks jump from nest cavities up to 50 feet high within 24 hours of hatching — and bounce.
Attributes
TypeWaterfowl
Habitatwetland, forest
SizeMedium
Dietomnivore
FlightStandard
Colorsgreen, brown, white
MigratoryYes
ContinentsNorth America
Nest Typecavity
ConservationLeast Concern
Difficulty: medium