Ducks in Alaska are a true spectacle of nature, bringing life and color to the state’s pristine lakes, rivers, and coastlines. From the familiar Mallard to the striking Harlequin Duck, Alaska’s diverse habitats support an incredible variety of duck species.
Whether you’re exploring the coastal waters or the inland wetlands, the sight of these birds gliding across the water or taking flight is a reminder of Alaska’s wild beauty. Ducks here are more than just a seasonal sight; they’re a vital part of the ecosystem, thriving in the rugged landscapes and adding to the state’s rich natural heritage.
1. Mallard
- Scientific name: Anas platyrhynchos
- Life span: 5-10 years
- Size: 50-65 cm (20-26 in)
- Weight: 700-1600 g (1.5-3.5 lb)
- Wingspan: 81-98 cm (32-39 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Mallards are found across North America, easily recognized by the male’s iridescent green head and curly tail feathers. Females are mottled brown with an orange bill. These adaptable ducks frequent ponds, lakes, and wetlands.
Mallards typically nest near water, in hidden spots among vegetation. Females create simple, shallow nests lined with down feathers to keep their eggs warm and protected.
Mallards are omnivorous, dabbling for seeds, aquatic plants, insects, and small fish. Their adaptable diet allows them to thrive in a wide range of environments.
Mallards are abundant and widespread, benefiting from habitat conservation efforts. Their adaptability to human-altered landscapes has helped them maintain stable populations across North America.
2. Northern Pintail
- Scientific name: Anas acuta
- Life span: 10-15 years
- Size: 56-66 cm (22-26 in)
- Weight: 450-1150 g (1-2.5 lbs)
- Wingspan: 80-95 cm (31-38 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Common
Northern Pintails are graceful, slender ducks with long necks and pointed tails. Males are striking with brown heads and white necks, while females are more subdued in mottled brown. They are commonly found in open wetlands across North America.
Northern Pintails nest in open areas, often far from water. Females scrape shallow depressions in the ground, lining them with grass and down feathers for insulation.
Northern Pintails primarily feed on seeds and aquatic plants, foraging in shallow waters. They also eat insects and other invertebrates, especially during the breeding season.
Northern Pintails have faced population declines due to habitat loss. Conservation efforts focus on wetland preservation and restoration to support their breeding and migration needs.
3. Northern Shoveler
- Scientific name: Spatula clypeata
- Life span: 10-15 years
- Size: 43-53 cm (17-21 in)
- Weight: 400-1100 g (0.88-2.4 lb)
- Wingspan: 74-86 cm (29-34 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Common
Northern Shovelers are easily recognized by their large, spoon-shaped bills. Males have striking green heads and rusty flanks, while females are mottled brown. They are commonly found in shallow wetlands across North America.
Northern Shovelers nest on the ground, usually in grassy areas near water. Their nests are well-hidden, lined with down, and surrounded by dense vegetation for protection.
Northern Shovelers are filter feeders, using their large, spoon-shaped bills to sift through mud and water for seeds, aquatic invertebrates, and plankton.
Northern Shovelers are stable, thanks to ongoing wetland conservation. They benefit from protected breeding grounds and are less vulnerable to habitat changes than some other species.
4. American Wigeon
- Scientific name: Mareca americana
- Life span: 12-15 years
- Size: 42-59 cm (17-23 in)
- Weight: 600-1200 g (1.3-2.6 lb)
- Wingspan: 76-91 cm (30-36 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Common
American Wigeons inhabit wetlands across North America, with males sporting a distinctive green eye stripe and white crown. Females are more subdued with a brownish body and grayish head, often seen in pairs or small flocks.
American Wigeons nest in shallow depressions on the ground, often near water. The nests are lined with soft down and hidden among grasses or shrubs for protection.
American Wigeons primarily graze on aquatic plants but also eat insects and seeds. They often forage on land, especially in marshes and wet meadows.
American Wigeons are relatively common, with populations benefiting from wetland conservation. Continued efforts to protect their breeding and wintering habitats are crucial for maintaining their numbers.
5. Blue-winged Teal
- Scientific name: Spatula discors
- Life span: 5-10 years
- Size: 40-47 cm (16-19 in)
- Weight: 280-420 g (9.9-14.8 oz)
- Wingspan: 58-63 cm (23-25 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Rare
Blue-winged Teals are small, dabbling ducks with males displaying a distinctive blue patch on their wings and a white crescent on their face. Females are mottled brown. They inhabit marshes and ponds across North America.
Blue-winged Teals nest on the ground, often in thick vegetation near wetlands. The female builds a well-concealed nest lined with down, providing warmth and protection for the eggs.
Blue-winged Teals feed on seeds, aquatic vegetation, and small invertebrates. They dabble in shallow waters, often in marshes and ponds, to find their food.
Blue-winged Teals are common but rely on wetland conservation for breeding and migration. Efforts to preserve these habitats are essential for sustaining their populations.
6. Gadwall
- Scientific name: Mareca strepera
- Life span: 5-10 years
- Size: 46-56 cm (18-22 in)
- Weight: 800-1,350 g (1.8-3.0 lb)
- Wingspan: 81-95 cm (32-37 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Gadwalls are widespread across North America, known for their understated elegance. Males have a subtly patterned gray and brown body, while females are mottled brown. Both sexes have a distinctive white speculum visible in flight.
Gadwalls nest on the ground, often in dense grass or brush near water. Females construct the nests using plant material and line them with down for warmth.
Gadwalls feed mainly on aquatic vegetation, dabbling in shallow waters. They also consume invertebrates, particularly during the breeding season when protein is essential.
Gadwalls have seen population increases due to successful wetland conservation efforts. They are considered stable, with a wide distribution across North America.
7. Green-winged Teal
- Scientific name: Anas crecca
- Life span: 5-10 years
- Size: 33-38 cm (13-15 in)
- Weight: 150-400 g (5.3-14.1 oz)
- Wingspan: 53-59 cm (21-23 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Common
Green-winged Teals are the smallest dabbling ducks in North America, with males featuring a vibrant green stripe running through their eyes. Females are more subdued with a mottled brown appearance. They frequent shallow wetlands and marshes.
Green-winged Teals nest in dense vegetation near water, often using old nests of other birds. The female lines the nest with down to keep the eggs warm.
Green-winged Teals primarily eat seeds, particularly those of aquatic plants, but also consume small invertebrates. They forage in shallow wetlands, often dabbling along the water’s edge.
Green-winged Teals are widespread and generally stable, though they benefit from wetland conservation efforts. Protecting their breeding and wintering habitats is key to their continued success.
8. Ring-necked Duck
- Scientific name: Aythya collaris
- Life span: 5-10 years
- Size: 39-46 cm (15-18 in)
- Weight: 680-1,360 g (1.5-3 lb)
- Wingspan: 63-76 cm (25-30 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and Rare
Ring-necked Ducks are medium-sized, with males featuring a striking black back and gray sides, plus a faint chestnut ring around the neck. Females are brown with a delicate white eye ring. They inhabit freshwater ponds and marshes.
Ring-necked Ducks nest in shallow, vegetated wetlands, building floating nests anchored to reeds or shrubs. The female lines the nest with down for warmth and protection.
They feed on aquatic plants, seeds, and invertebrates. They forage by diving in shallow waters, often in ponds and marshes rich in vegetation.
Ring-necked Ducks are generally stable, with populations benefiting from wetland conservation. Protecting their breeding and wintering habitats is important for maintaining their populations.
9. Redhead
- Scientific name: Aythya americana
- Life span: 10-15 years
- Size: 42-49 cm (17-19 in)
- Weight: 850-1,600 g (1.9-3.5 lb)
- Wingspan: 76-84 cm (30-33 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Rare
Redheads are medium-sized ducks known for their round heads and striking coloration. Males have a vibrant reddish-brown head and grayish body, while females are brown with a slightly paler face. They frequent marshes and open water.
Redheads nest in wetlands, often in shallow water among dense vegetation. The female builds a floating nest from reeds and lines it with down for insulation.
Redheads are diving ducks, feeding on aquatic plants, insects, and small invertebrates. They forage by diving underwater, often in marshes and lakes with abundant vegetation.
Redheads are stable, with populations benefiting from wetland conservation. Continued protection of their breeding and wintering habitats is essential for sustaining their numbers.
10. Bufflehead
- Scientific name: Bucephala albeola
- Life span: 12-15 years
- Size: 32-40 cm (13-16 in)
- Weight: 270-550 g (9.5-19.4 oz)
- Wingspan: 46-54 cm (18-21 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and Common
Buffleheads are small, striking ducks found across North America, especially in wooded lakes. Males have a large white patch on their head, contrasting with their iridescent black body, while females are grayish with a white cheek patch.
Buffleheads nest in tree cavities, often in old woodpecker holes near water. The female lines the cavity with down feathers to provide warmth and cushioning for the eggs.
Buffleheads are diving ducks, feeding on aquatic invertebrates, fish, and crustaceans. They forage underwater, often in shallow lakes and ponds, using their small size to their advantage.
Buffleheads are generally stable, benefiting from protected nesting habitats and minimal competition for nesting sites. Conservation efforts focus on preserving forested wetlands.
11. Canvasback
- Scientific name: Aythya valisineria
- Life span: 10-15 years
- Size: 48-56 cm (19-22 in)
- Weight: 1,270-1,800 g (2.8-4 lb)
- Wingspan: 84-89 cm (33-35 in)
- Status: Vulnerable
- State status: Breeding and Common
Canvasbacks are large, elegant ducks with a distinctive sloping profile. Males have a reddish-brown head, black chest, and pale body, while females are more muted in brown and gray. They are commonly found in large, shallow lakes.
Canvasbacks build their nests in shallow water, often anchored to reeds or other vegetation. The female lines the nest with down to insulate the eggs from cold water.
Canvasbacks primarily eat aquatic plants, especially the tubers of wild celery, but also consume invertebrates. They forage by diving, often in deep water, to reach their preferred food sources.
Canvasbacks have recovered from past population declines thanks to wetland conservation efforts. Protecting their breeding and wintering habitats remains crucial for maintaining their numbers.
12. Lesser Scaup
- Scientific name: Aythya affinis
- Life span: 12-15 years
- Size: 38-48 cm (15-19 in)
- Weight: 400-1000 g (0.88-2.2 lb)
- Wingspan: 64-74 cm (25-29 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Common
Lesser Scaups are medium-sized diving ducks with males showing a purplish-black head, gray back, and white sides. Females are brown with a distinctive white patch at the base of the bill. They frequent freshwater lakes and marshes.
The Lesser Scaup prefers to nest near water, typically in dense vegetation. Females lay around 9 to 11 eggs, incubating them for about 24 days. Nesting is often solitary, with nests carefully hidden to avoid predators, ensuring a safe environment for their young.
Diving into the water, Lesser Scaups feed primarily on aquatic invertebrates like insects, mollusks, and crustaceans. They also consume aquatic plants and seeds, especially during the non-breeding season. This diverse diet sustains them across varied habitats, from lakes to coastal marshes.
Conservation efforts for Lesser Scaups focus on habitat protection and monitoring population trends. Historically, populations have fluctuated, partly due to wetland degradation. Current efforts emphasize wetland conservation and research to address environmental factors affecting their breeding and survival.
13. Hooded Merganser
- Scientific name: Lophodytes cucullatus
- Life span: 6-12 years
- Size: 40-49 cm (16-19 in)
- Weight: 400-700 g (0.88-1.54 lb)
- Wingspan: 63-76 cm (25-30 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Rare
Hooded Mergansers are striking, small diving ducks with a dramatic crest. Males have a black-and-white head with a large white patch, while females have a brownish crest. They prefer wooded ponds and slow-moving rivers.
Hooded Mergansers nest in tree cavities near water, often using old woodpecker holes. The female lines the nest with down to provide warmth and cushioning for the eggs.
Hooded Mergansers are diving ducks, feeding on fish, aquatic insects, and crustaceans. They forage in shallow waters, using their narrow, serrated bills to catch slippery prey.
Hooded Mergansers are stable but rely on the availability of nesting cavities in forested wetlands. Conservation efforts focus on protecting these habitats and ensuring suitable nesting sites.
14. Red-breasted Merganser
- Scientific name: Mergus serrator
- Life span: 9-14 years
- Size: 54-62 cm (21-24 in)
- Weight: 700-1,600 g (1.5-3.5 lb)
- Wingspan: 66-81 cm (26-32 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Common
Red-breasted Mergansers are sleek, long-bodied ducks with spiky crests. Males have a dark green head, reddish-brown breast, and gray sides, while females are gray with a reddish-brown head. They are often found in coastal waters.
Red-breasted Mergansers nest on the ground, often in sheltered spots near water. The female builds a nest from grass and down, hidden among dense vegetation for protection.
Red-breasted Mergansers are diving ducks, feeding primarily on fish. They hunt in coastal waters and freshwater lakes, using their slender, serrated bills to catch fast-moving prey.
Red-breasted Mergansers are stable, with populations benefiting from the protection of coastal and freshwater habitats. Conservation efforts focus on preserving these critical environments.
15. Black Scoter
- Scientific name: Melanitta americana
- Life span: 10-15 years
- Size: 43-54 cm (17-21 in)
- Weight: 30.4-38.8 oz (862-1100 g)
- Wingspan: 79-91 cm (31-36 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Common
Black Scoters are medium-sized sea ducks with males entirely black and featuring a distinctive orange knob at the base of the bill. Females are dark brown with a pale face. They frequent coastal waters, particularly in winter.
Black Scoters prefer to nest in remote, northern freshwater wetlands. The female typically chooses a secluded spot on the ground, often near water, to lay 6 to 9 eggs. The nest is well-camouflaged with surrounding vegetation, and the female alone incubates the eggs for about 27 days.
Black Scoters primarily feed on marine mollusks, particularly clams and mussels. They dive to the seabed to capture their prey, displaying strong foraging skills. In freshwater habitats, they may also consume insects, crustaceans, and aquatic vegetation, adapting their diet to the environment.
Conservation efforts for Black Scoters are centered around habitat protection, particularly in their wintering grounds. Historically, they have faced threats from oil spills and habitat degradation. Ongoing research and conservation initiatives aim to mitigate these threats and stabilize populations.
16. Surf Scoter
- Scientific name: Melanitta perspicillata
- Life span: 10-20 years
- Size: 45-54 cm (18-21 in)
- Weight: 710-1,980 g (1.6-4.4 lb)
- Wingspan: 76-91 cm (30-36 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Common
Surf Scoters are robust sea ducks with males displaying a distinctive black body and colourful, swollen bill. Females are dark brown with pale face patches. They are often found in coastal waters and are known for riding ocean waves.
Surf Scoters nest in boreal forests, usually near freshwater lakes or ponds. They prefer to nest on the ground, well-hidden among dense vegetation. The female lays 5 to 9 eggs and is solely responsible for incubation, which lasts approximately 28 days. Their nesting sites are remote and often isolated.
These sea ducks primarily feed on mollusks, such as mussels and clams, which they skillfully extract from their shells. Surf Scoters also consume crustaceans, small fish, and aquatic insects, with their diet shifting depending on the season and availability of prey in coastal and freshwater habitats.
Surf Scoters have been impacted by habitat loss and oil pollution in coastal areas. Conservation efforts focus on protecting critical habitats, including nesting and wintering sites. Monitoring programs aim to better understand population trends and address threats to their survival.
17. Long-tailed Duck
- Scientific name: Clangula hyemalis
- Life span: 6-12 years
- Size: 43-58 cm (17-23 in)
- Weight: 430-1,160 g (0.95-2.6 lb)
- Wingspan: 61-84 cm (24-33 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Common
Long-tailed Ducks are Arctic breeders, recognized by their long, slender tails and striking winter plumage. Males are mostly white with dark markings, while females are brown and white. They are commonly seen in cold, northern waters.
Long-tailed Ducks nest in the Arctic tundra, often near small ponds or wetlands. The female builds a simple nest on the ground, concealed in vegetation. She lays 6 to 9 eggs, incubating them for about 24 days. These ducks are highly adapted to their remote, cold nesting environments.
Long-tailed Ducks are skilled divers, feeding on a mix of mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish. In winter, they shift to deeper waters, where they continue to dive for food. Their diet varies seasonally, reflecting changes in their habitat and prey availability.
Long-tailed Duck populations have faced declines due to habitat changes and oil spills. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat protection, especially in wintering areas. International cooperation is essential for safeguarding this species, as it migrates across vast, often threatened, regions.
18. Harlequin Duck
- Scientific name: Histrionicus histrionicus
- Life span: 5-12 years
- Size: 15-18 in / 38-46 cm
- Weight: 1.2-1.4 lbs / 550-650 g
- Wingspan: 26-29 in / 66-74 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Common
Harlequin Ducks are small, colourful sea ducks with males displaying bold patterns of slate blue, white, and rust. Females are more subdued in gray-brown with white facial markings. They are often found in fast-flowing streams and rocky coasts.
Harlequin Ducks nest in secluded, rugged terrains near fast-flowing streams and rivers. The female usually selects a well-hidden site, often in crevices or among dense vegetation. They lay 5 to 7 eggs, and the female incubates them for about 27 to 30 days, remaining highly secretive.
Feeding primarily in turbulent waters, Harlequin Ducks dive and forage on aquatic invertebrates, including insects, crustaceans, and mollusks. Their diet is closely tied to the fast-moving streams and coastal waters they inhabit, where they exhibit remarkable agility in hunting underwater.
Once in decline due to hunting and habitat disturbance, Harlequin Ducks have benefited from protective legislation and habitat conservation. Continued efforts focus on monitoring populations and preserving critical breeding and wintering areas to ensure their ongoing recovery and stability.
19. White-winged Scoter
- Scientific name: Melanitta fusca
- Life span: 10-15 years
- Size: 48-58 cm (19-23 in)
- Weight: 900-2,800 g (2-6.2 lb)
- Wingspan: 81-97 cm (32-38 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Common
White-winged Scoters are large sea ducks with males having all-black plumage and a white patch on the wing. Females are brown with subtle white wing patches. They are commonly found in large coastal bays and offshore waters.
White-winged Scoters nest in boreal forests near large lakes or rivers. The female selects a well-concealed ground site, often under shrubs or in tall grasses, where she lays 5 to 9 eggs. Incubation lasts about 27 days, with the female remaining vigilant to protect the nest from predators.
White-winged Scoters dive for their food, feeding primarily on mollusks and crustaceans in coastal waters. They also consume aquatic insects and small fish, depending on availability. Their strong diving ability allows them to forage at considerable depths, exploiting a range of aquatic habitats.
Efforts to conserve White-winged Scoters have focused on protecting both breeding and wintering habitats. Historically, populations have been vulnerable to oil spills and habitat loss. Conservation strategies include habitat restoration and international cooperation, given their extensive migratory routes.
20. Common Eider
- Scientific name: Somateria mollissima
- Life span: 15-20 years
- Size: 20-28 in / 51-71 cm
- Weight: 3.3-5.5 lbs / 1.5-2.5 kg
- Wingspan: 30-40 in / 76-102 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Common
Common Eiders are large, heavy sea ducks known for their down feathers. Males are striking with black-and-white plumage and a green nape, while females are brown and well-camouflaged. They are often found in northern coastal waters.
Common Eiders nest in colonies on coastal islands or near tundra lakes. The female builds a down-lined nest on the ground, laying 4 to 6 eggs. Incubation lasts around 24 days, during which the female rarely leaves the nest, relying on her fat reserves to sustain her through this period.
Common Eiders dive for their food, mainly feeding on mollusks, especially mussels, which they swallow whole. Their diet also includes crustaceans and other marine invertebrates. Their strong, muscular bodies and specialized bills are well-suited to foraging in the cold, often turbulent waters they inhabit.
Historically, Common Eiders were heavily hunted for their down and eggs. Conservation efforts have since focused on habitat protection and sustainable harvesting practices. Population monitoring and protection of breeding sites have helped stabilize numbers, though ongoing threats like oil spills persist.
21. King Eider
- Scientific name: Somateria spectabilis
- Life span: 10-15 years
- Size: 20-28 in / 51-71 cm
- Weight: 3.1-5.1 lbs / 1.4-2.3 kg
- Wingspan: 31-35 in / 79-89 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Rare
King Eiders are Arctic sea ducks with males displaying vibrant orange bills and a striking mix of black, white, and blue-gray plumage. Females are mottled brown with a subtle elegance. They are typically found in frigid, northern waters.
King Eiders nest in the Arctic tundra, typically near freshwater lakes or ponds. The female constructs a well-hidden nest on the ground, using grasses and down. She lays 4 to 7 eggs and incubates them for about 24 days. King Eiders are highly adapted to the harsh Arctic environment.
King Eiders primarily feed on mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish, which they dive to catch. Their diet is rich in protein, essential for surviving in their cold habitats. During the breeding season, they may also consume more insects and aquatic plants, reflecting changes in prey availability.
Conservation of King Eiders focuses on protecting Arctic breeding habitats and migratory routes. Historically, their populations have been impacted by hunting and oil pollution. Ongoing efforts include international cooperation and research to better understand their ecology and mitigate emerging threats.
22. Greater Scaup
- Scientific name: Aythya marila
- Life span: 10-20 years
- Size: 41-51 cm (16-20 in)
- Weight: 900-1,600 g (2-3.5 lb)
- Wingspan: 81-87 cm (32-34 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Common
Greater Scaups are similar to their lesser counterparts but slightly larger. Males have a greenish-black head and bright white sides, while females are brown with a white face patch. They are found in coastal bays and large lakes.
Greater Scaups nest in open tundra, often near water bodies. The female constructs a shallow nest on the ground, lined with down and hidden among grasses. They typically lay 6 to 10 eggs, with the female solely responsible for incubation, which lasts around 25 days.
Greater Scaups are adept divers, foraging primarily on mollusks, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. During the winter months, they also consume seeds and aquatic vegetation. Their diet reflects the availability of prey in their aquatic habitats, from freshwater lakes to coastal estuaries.
Historically, Greater Scaup populations have been stable, but recent declines have raised concerns. Conservation efforts aim to protect breeding and wintering habitats, focusing on mitigating the impacts of climate change and pollution, which threaten their food sources and nesting sites.
23. Common Goldeneye
- Scientific name: Bucephala clangula
- Life span: 6-12 years
- Size: 40-51 cm (16-20 in)
- Weight: 800-1,550 g (1.8-3.4 lb)
- Wingspan: 66-81 cm (26-32 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Common
Common Goldeneyes are distinctive diving ducks with bright yellow eyes. Males have a greenish-black head with a round white cheek spot, while females are gray with brown heads. They are often seen in cold, northern waters.
Common Goldeneyes nest in tree cavities near water, often using old woodpecker holes. The female lines the cavity with down to create a warm, insulated environment for the eggs.
Common Goldeneyes are diving ducks, feeding on aquatic invertebrates, fish, and crustaceans. They forage underwater in lakes, rivers, and coastal waters, using their strong legs to propel themselves.
Common Goldeneyes are stable, with populations benefiting from the preservation of forested wetlands and nesting cavities. Conservation efforts focus on protecting these habitats.
24. Eurasian Wigeon
- Scientific name: Anas penelope
- Life span: 7-10 years
- Size: 42–52 cm (17–20 inches)
- Weight: 0,5–1 kg (1.1–2.4 lbs)
- Wingspan: 71–80 cm (28–31 inches)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and Rare
Eurasian Wigeons, a rare visitor to North America, are similar to their American counterparts but have a distinctive rusty head and cream-colored forehead. They are occasionally spotted among American Wigeon flocks during migration.
Eurasian Wigeons nest on the ground, often near water, in well-concealed spots among dense vegetation. The female builds a nest lined with soft down for warmth.
Eurasian Wigeons feed mainly on aquatic plants and grasses, often grazing on land. They also consume small invertebrates, particularly during the breeding season.
Eurasian Wigeons are rare in North America, typically seen during migration. Conservation efforts in their native range focus on wetland preservation and habitat protection.
25. Common Merganser
- Scientific name: Mergus merganser
- Life span: 5-12 years
- Size: 22-25 in / 56-64 cm
- Weight: 2.2-3.1 lbs / 1.0-1.4 kg
- Wingspan: 26-30 in / 66-76 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and Common
Common Mergansers are large, elegant ducks with males having a white body and dark green head. Females have a gray body and reddish-brown head with a shaggy crest. They are typically found in rivers and large lakes.
Common Mergansers nest in tree cavities near large bodies of water, often in forests. The female lines the nest with down for warmth and to cushion the eggs.
Common Mergansers are diving ducks, feeding on fish, amphibians, and invertebrates. They hunt in rivers, lakes, and coastal waters, using their serrated bills to grasp slippery prey.
Common Mergansers are stable, with populations benefiting from the protection of forested wetlands and water bodies. Conservation efforts focus on preserving their breeding and foraging habitats.
Where to find Ducks in Alaska
Finding ducks in Alaska is an exhilarating experience, offering birdwatchers a chance to witness these beautiful creatures in their natural, often breathtaking habitats. Alaska’s vast landscapes, from coastal marshes to remote tundra, provide ideal conditions for a wide variety of duck species.
To start, consider heading out early in the morning when ducks are most active, especially around wetlands, lakes, and coastal areas. Bring a good pair of binoculars and dress warmly; Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, even in summer.
Here are four great areas to explore:
- Kenai Peninsula: Known for its stunning scenery, the Kenai Peninsula offers excellent duck watching opportunities along its numerous lakes and coastal wetlands. Species like the Harlequin Duck and Surf Scoter are commonly spotted here.
- Kodiak Island: This remote island is a haven for sea ducks, including the King Eider and Common Eider. The rugged coastline and sheltered bays provide perfect conditions for these species, especially in winter.
- Tanana River Flats: Located near Fairbanks, this area is a hotspot during the spring and fall migrations. You can spot Lesser and Greater Scaups, along with many other migratory waterfowl.
- Copper River Delta: This expansive delta is one of the most important migratory stopovers for waterfowl in North America. It’s particularly rich in birdlife during spring migration, with ducks like the Long-tailed Duck passing through in large numbers.
Conclusion
Exploring the diverse world of ducks in Alaska reveals the state’s rich tapestry of ecosystems and the crucial roles these birds play within them. By understanding, appreciating, and protecting these species and their habitats, we ensure the continued vibrancy of Alaska’s natural heritage for generations of wildlife enthusiasts to cherish.
