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Waterfowl Biology & Research


Learn all you could ever want to know about ducks and geese!  DU biologists have accumulated a wealth of research and findings about waterfowl and their behavior.  Whether looking for tips to improve your waterfowl ID skills or learning more about migration patterns, you've come to the right place!

Waterfowl ID

Learn fascinating information about various waterfowl species including breeding and migration information. In addition, you can even listen to what the waterfowl sound like in the wild, so you can easily identify them on your next outing. View the Gallery  | Waterfowl ID Quiz

Understanding Waterfowl

Ducks Unlimited has conducted extensive research on waterfowl biology. Our biologists have written numerous "Understanding Waterfowl" articles in DU Magazine. We're pleased to share dozens of these features online for you!  View articles

Waterfowl Lifecycle

In the space of one year a duck experiences the full spectrum of seasonal changes that usher in opportunities & challenges. Follow the life cycle diagram for a better understanding of the activities and energy requirements in different phases of a duck's annual cycle. Follow a Mallard Through the Annual Cycle.

Wood Duck Boxes

Creating a wood duck box and strategically placing it can draw birds into an area and create a local population. Learn how to build and maintain a wood duck box on your property!

Where Do Your Ducks Come From?

Did you know that biologists band more than 200,000 ducks and 150,000 geese every year?  With roughly 90,000 bands reported each year, the data explains waterfowl migration and habits.  As birds are reported or harvested, this information is placed onto maps, showing where the bird was banded and where it was reported.  These maps provide a glimpse of not only migration corridors, but where ducks in your area come from. Learn more.
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Fall Flight Update: A Year of Extremes
DU Chief Scientist sheds light on habitat, hunting






GORE-TEX Products
Improving the outcome of your waterfowl hunt



Understanding Waterfowl: Drought and Deluge
We can't control the weather, but conserving wetlands and grasslands on the prairies will help ensure the long-term health of duck populations



Duck numbers remain strong as habitat declines
FWS survey indicates record duck numbers, average pond count



Habitat conservation priority for healthy bird populations in Canada
New report indicates waterfowl populations healthy, but threats to habitat escalating



Duck Numbers Remain Strong as Habitat Declines
FWS survey indicates record duck numbers, average pond count



North Dakota 2012 Spring Breeding Duck Survey
Spring Duck Index Up, Water Conditions Down



Understanding Waterfowl: The Amazing Molt
Waterfowl replace all of their feathers with new plumage at least once a year



Field Reports: 2012 Duck Production Outlook
Prospects for breeding waterfowl have improved in many areas since last report






Understanding Waterfowl: The Blue-Winged Ducks
Northern shovelers and blue-winged and cinnamon teal are among the most closely related of North America's ducks



Field Reports: 2012 Spring Habitat Conditions
Significant rainfall will be needed to maintain or improve wetland habitats in many important waterfowl breeding areas









Late Winter Habitat Conditions in Canada
March Habitat Conditions from DU Canada



Understanding Waterfowl: The Amazing World of Macroinvertebrates
An important food source for many waterfowl, these tiny creatures have fascinating life histories


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