Arizona, a state typically associated with its arid landscapes and desert vistas, might not seem like an ideal habitat for ducks. However, the reality is quite different. Despite its reputation, Arizona provides a unique environment for a variety of duck species.
In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the diverse world of ducks in Arizona. From diet to nesting behaviour, we’ll explore the different aspects of these waterfowl’s lives in the state. We’ll also touch on the significance of these ducks within Arizona’s ecosystems and the conservation efforts aimed at protecting them.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just curious about the presence of ducks in this unexpected setting, this article will provide you with valuable insights into the role of ducks in Arizona’s natural landscape.
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
The quintessential duck, the Mallard, graces both rural and urban waterways across North America, Europe, Asia, and even North Africa. These ducks are often recognized by their striking iridescent green heads, which gleam in the sun, a feature exclusive to males.
The females, though more modest in their mottled brown feathers, carry an elegance of their own. Both genders share the distinctive blue speculum bordered with white, a feature that flashes beautifully during flight.
Mallards, known for their adaptability, often nest in a variety of environments, from marshes to urban parks. They build nests using grass and leaves, usually on the ground and often near water, but sometimes in elevated or unusual places.
These ducks are omnivores, feeding on a wide range of foods from aquatic plants and invertebrates to grains and seeds. Mallards are often seen dabbling at the water’s surface or foraging in fields.
Mallards are one of the most common and widespread ducks, with stable populations. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation, especially in areas affected by urban development.
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 lb
- Wingspan: 80-95 cm (31-38 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Sleek and elegant, Northern Pintails have a cosmopolitan distribution, spanning across the Northern Hemisphere. The males are a striking mix of white and chocolate brown with a distinctive white stripe running down their neck, while females are cloaked in a subtle, speckled brown.
Their long, pointed tails, from which they derive their name, add to their distinguished appearance.
Northern Pintails nest on the ground, typically in open areas near water. They use grass and other plant materials for their nests, lining them with down from their breasts. Pintails often nest in agricultural fields.
They primarily feed on seeds and grains, along with aquatic plants and invertebrates. Northern Pintails often feed in shallow waters or agricultural fields.
Northern Pintails are widely distributed but have faced declines due to habitat loss. Conservation efforts focus on wetland restoration and sustainable agricultural practices to support their habitats.
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
The Northern Shoveler, with its oversized, spoon-shaped bill, is a marvel of nature. Inhabiting regions across North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, the males exhibit a vibrant display of colours including green heads, white chests, and chestnut sides.
Females are more subdued with mottled brown plumage, but both sexes share the strikingly large bill, an adaptation perfectly suited for their dabbling lifestyle in marshes and wetlands.
Northern Shovelers nest on the ground, in dense vegetation near water bodies. The female builds the nest using grass and down. They prefer isolated, concealed locations for nesting.
These ducks have specialized bills to filter food, feeding mainly on aquatic invertebrates, seeds, and plant matter. They often feed by sweeping their bills side to side in shallow water.
The Northern Shoveler’s population is generally stable. Conservation efforts involve protecting wetland habitats and monitoring water quality to ensure the availability of food resources.
4. 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: Migratory and common
The Lesser Scaup, a diving duck, is widespread across North America and into Central and South America. Males have a black head with a purplish sheen, a white body, and a black tail, while females are uniformly brown. They are often found in lakes and rivers, diving for a variety of aquatic foods.
Lesser Scaups nest near water, often in marshes or on islands. They use vegetation to build their nests, which are hidden among reeds or under bushes.
Their diet is varied, consisting of aquatic plants, seeds, mollusks, and insects. Lesser Scaups are diving ducks, foraging in deeper waters.
Lesser Scaups face challenges from habitat degradation and pollution. Conservation efforts are directed towards maintaining clean and healthy wetlands.
5. 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 are a spectacle of color and grace. Found throughout North America, extending into the northern parts of South America during winter, these ducks are distinguished by a unique combination of a creamy stripe on the forehead and a green patch on the eye in males. Females are brushed with warm, earthy tones and a less conspicuous but equally charming plumage. They frequent marshes, ponds, and lakes, bringing a splash of color to these habitats.
American Wigeons usually nest on the ground near water, hidden in tall grass or under shrubs. Their nests are made of plant material and lined with down. They prefer secluded areas for nesting to avoid predators.
These ducks primarily feed on plant material, including leaves, stems, and seeds of aquatic and terrestrial plants. They are also known to forage in fields and occasionally eat insects.
American Wigeons have a large range and a stable population, with conservation efforts focusing on maintaining healthy wetlands and addressing habitat loss due to agricultural expansion.
6. Wood Duck
- Scientific name: Aix sponsa
- Life span: 5-10 years
- Size: 48-54 cm (19-21 in)
- Weight: 454-862 g (1-1.9 lb)
- Wingspan: 66-73 cm (26-29 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
In the world of waterfowl, the Wood Duck stands out as a living jewel. Found predominantly in North America, the male is a kaleidoscope of iridescence with multiple hues adorning its body, while the female is an understated beauty with a distinctive eye-ring and white throat. These ducks are unique for their preference for wooded swamps and streams, a contrast to the more open habitats of other species.
Unique among ducks, Wood Ducks nest in tree cavities or nest boxes near water. They readily adapt to human-provided nest boxes, which has helped increase their populations.
They have a varied diet that includes seeds, fruits, insects, and aquatic invertebrates. Wood Ducks often forage in wooded swamps and streams.
Once threatened by habitat loss and overhunting, Wood Ducks have rebounded thanks to conservation measures, including legal protection and the provision of nest boxes.
7. 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 common
The Blue-winged Teal, a small dabbling duck, is a traveler, migrating long distances between North America and South America. The males are notable for their bold white crescent in front of the eye, set against a grayish body, while females wear a more conservative mottled brown.
Both sexes flash light blue patches on their wings, a signature trait evident in flight.
Blue-winged Teals nest on the ground, hidden in tall grass or other vegetation, often some distance from water. The nests are bowl-shaped, lined with down and grass.
They primarily eat seeds and other plant matter, supplemented with aquatic invertebrates. Blue-winged Teals often forage in shallow waters and flooded fields.
These ducks have a large population and extensive range. Conservation efforts focus on wetland conservation and management, ensuring suitable breeding and feeding habitats.
8. 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 lb)
- Wingspan: 81-95 cm (32-37 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Subtle yet sophisticated, the Gadwall inhabits a vast range from North America to Eurasia. The males are adorned with a refined palette of gray and brown, accented with a black rear end, while the females are a camouflaged blend of brown.
Both sexes boast an understated beauty, with their plumage providing perfect camouflage among the reeds and rushes of their freshwater lake and marsh habitats.
Gadwalls nest on the ground, often in dense vegetation near water. They use grass and reeds to construct their nests, lining them with down. Gadwalls are secretive nesters, choosing concealed spots to avoid detection.
Their diet mainly consists of aquatic vegetation, but Gadwalls also consume aquatic invertebrates. They often feed by dabbling in shallow waters.
Gadwalls have experienced population growth in recent decades, partly due to conservation efforts in wetland management and preservation. They are currently not considered at risk.
9. 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
One of the smallest ducks, the Green-winged Teal, is a bird of many worlds, ranging across North America, Europe, and Asia. Males are striking with a chestnut head and a broad green eye stripe, contrasting with their gray bodies.
Females are a demure brown but share with the males their namesake feature: the vibrant green speculum on the wing.
Green-winged Teals nest on the ground, typically in dense grass or under shrubs near water. Their nests are well-hidden, lined with down and vegetation.
Their diet consists mostly of seeds and aquatic vegetation, but they also consume insects and other small invertebrates. They often feed in shallow waters.
The Green-winged Teal is widespread and abundant. Conservation efforts are centered on maintaining and restoring wetland habitats, crucial for their nesting and feeding.
10. 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 common
Despite its name, the Ring-necked Duck is more easily recognized by the bold white ring around its bill. Found across North America and into Central America, males display a sleek black back and a distinctive white triangle on the side, while females are a more understated brown. They frequent lakes and ponds, often diving for food.
Ring-necked Ducks nest near water, often in marshes or on floating vegetation. The nests are well-hidden, constructed with vegetation, and lined with down.
They primarily feed on aquatic vegetation and seeds, along with mollusks and insects. Ring-necked Ducks are divers, often foraging in deeper waters.
While their populations are stable, Ring-necked Ducks face challenges due to habitat loss. Conservation efforts include wetland preservation and restoration to maintain suitable breeding grounds.
11. 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
Compact and buoyant, the Bufflehead is a small sea duck predominantly found in North America. The males exhibit a striking contrast of black and white with a large white patch on the back of their head, while females are more subdued with a dark body and a smaller white cheek patch. They frequent coastal waters and inland lakes, often seen bobbing like corks on the surface.
Buffleheads are cavity nesters, using holes in trees, often those created by woodpeckers. They prefer nesting near water and will also use nest boxes.
Their diet primarily consists of aquatic invertebrates, supplemented with plant material. Buffleheads dive to forage, often in shallow waters near the shore.
Buffleheads have stable populations but are dependent on the availability of nesting cavities. Conservation efforts focus on preserving mature forests and providing nest boxes.
12. Ruddy Duck
- Scientific name: Oxyura jamaicensis
- Life span: 6-8 years
- Size: 36-43 cm (14-17 in)
- Weight: 430-790 g (0.95-1.74 lb)
- Wingspan: 61-74 cm (24-29 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and common
The Ruddy Duck is a small, stout bird found across the Americas. Males are renowned for their bright chestnut bodies and sky-blue bills during the breeding season, while females and non-breeding males have more subdued brownish plumage. Inhabiting freshwater lakes and ponds, they are often seen with their tails cocked upright.
Ruddy Ducks build floating nests in dense marsh vegetation, often concealed and anchored to plants. The female constructs the nest, which is a compact bowl of grasses and weeds.
They primarily feed on seeds and roots of aquatic plants, along with some aquatic insects and crustaceans. Ruddy Ducks dive to forage for food.
Ruddy Ducks are generally common but face threats from habitat loss and degradation. Conservation efforts focus on wetland preservation and restoration.
13. 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: Migratory and rare
The Redhead is a medium-sized diving duck with a broad geographic range across North America and parts of Central America. Males are easily identified by their striking red heads and black chests, contrasting with gray bodies, while females are a more uniform brown.
These ducks prefer large lakes and marshes, where they can dive for their food.
Redheads often nest in marshes, building floating nests anchored to vegetation. They occasionally lay eggs in the nests of other ducks. The nests are made of reeds and lined with down.
Their diet consists mainly of aquatic plants, seeds, and tubers, supplemented by aquatic invertebrates. Redheads are diving ducks, foraging in deeper wetland areas.
Redheads are subject to habitat loss due to wetland drainage. Conservation efforts focus on preserving and restoring wetland habitats, vital for their survival.
14. 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: Migratory and rare
The Canvasback, a diver duck, is known for its distinctive wedge-shaped profile. Inhabiting North America, these ducks are striking in appearance; males have a reddish head and neck, contrasting with their white body, and females are a muted brown. They prefer large, open waters, where their sleek form is well adapted for diving.
Canvasbacks build floating nests from vegetation in marshes or shallow lakes. They prefer nesting in colonies for safety. The nests are anchored to vegetation and hidden among reeds.
They mostly eat aquatic plants, particularly wild celery, and supplement their diet with insects and mollusks. Canvasbacks are diving ducks, foraging in deeper waters.
Canvasbacks have faced challenges due to habitat loss and degradation. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting and restoring wetland habitats, crucial for their feeding and breeding.
15. 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: Migratory and common
The Hooded Merganser, a small duck found in North America, is notable for its striking crest. Males have a large white crest bordered with black, contrasting with their dark bodies, while females have a more subdued brown crest. They prefer forested wetlands and rivers, using their serrated bills to catch fish.
Hooded Mergansers are another cavity-nesting species, using tree holes or nest boxes near water. They are sensitive to disturbance during the nesting period.
Their diet includes small fish, crustaceans, and insects. Hooded Mergansers are diving ducks, adept at catching prey underwater.
Conservation efforts for Hooded Mergansers focus on preserving forested wetlands and providing nesting boxes to compensate for the loss of natural cavities.
16. 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: Migratory and rare
A bird of the sea and large lakes, the Red-breasted Merganser has a wide range in the Northern Hemisphere. Males are distinctive with their dark green heads, red eyes, and rusty-coloured breast, while females sport a grayish body with a shaggy brown crest. Their slender, hooked bills are perfectly adapted for catching fish.
Red-breasted Mergansers nest on the ground, often in sheltered locations near water. They use vegetation and down to construct their nests, which are typically well-camouflaged.
They primarily feed on small fish, supplemented by aquatic insects and crustaceans. Red-breasted Mergansers are excellent divers, often foraging in coastal waters and large lakes.
While their populations are generally stable, habitat preservation, especially in coastal areas and large freshwater systems, is crucial for their conservation.
17. 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: Migratory and rare
The Common Goldeneye, a diving duck, has a wide range across the Northern Hemisphere. The males are stunning with their greenish-black heads and a prominent white spot near the beak, set against a contrasting black and white body. Females are more modest with brown heads and gray bodies. They are typically found in lakes and rivers, diving for their meals.
Common Goldeneyes are cavity nesters, often using natural tree cavities or nest boxes. They prefer nesting sites close to water, and the female lays her eggs in a single cavity.
Their diet consists mainly of aquatic invertebrates, small fish, and plant material. Common Goldeneyes are skilled divers, foraging in deeper waters.
Goldeneyes rely on the availability of nesting cavities. Conservation efforts involve preserving mature forests and providing artificial nesting boxes to support their populations.
18. Common Merganser
- Scientific name: Mergus merganser
- Life span: 10-15 years
- Size: 22-28 in (56-71 cm)
- Weight: 2-4 lbs (0.9-1.8 kg)
- Wingspan: 26-29 in (66-74 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
The Common Merganser, a large diving duck, is found across the Northern Hemisphere. Males are striking with their dark green heads and crisp white bodies, while females have a rusty head with a white chin. Preferring rivers and lakes, they are adept at diving and catching fish with their slender, serrated bills.
Preferring tree cavities near water, they often use holes by other species or nest boxes. Nesting sites are usually close to feeding areas.
Primarily fish-eaters, they dive in rivers and lakes for aquatic prey, also consuming insects and crustaceans, highlighting their role in aquatic ecosystems.
Faces challenges from habitat degradation and pollution. Conservation includes protecting waterways and riparian habitats, with a historical focus on environmental protection.
19. Black-bellied whistling-duck
- Scientific name: Dendrocygna autumnalis
- Life span: 8-15 years
- Size: 17-20 in (43-51 cm)
- Weight: 18-35 oz (510-990 grams)
- Wingspan: 28-30 in (71-76 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
The Black-bellied Whistling-Duck, a long-legged species, is found from the southern United States to South America. Unique in appearance, they have a gray face, a red bill, and a black belly, as their name suggests. They are often seen perched on trees or fences, a behavior unusual among ducks.
These ducks nest in tree cavities or artificial structures, adapting to urban environments. They exhibit communal nesting behaviors and strong pair bonds.
Herbivorous, feeding on seeds, grains, and fruits, along with insects and invertebrates. Their diet adapts to available resources in both natural and urban areas.
Efforts involve monitoring populations and managing habitats, with a focus on wetland preservation due to their reliance on these ecosystems.
20. Cinnamon Teal
- Scientific name: Spatula cyanoptera
- Life span: 7-10 years
- Size: 15-16 in (38-41 cm)
- Weight: 12-15 oz (340-425 grams)
- Wingspan: 24-26 in (61-66 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
The Cinnamon Teal, a small dabbling duck, inhabits the Americas, from the United States to South America. The males are striking with their rich cinnamon-red plumage and red eyes, while the females are a mottled brown. They are often found in marshes and ponds, where their vibrant colours add a splash of warmth.
Cinnamon Teals in Arizona nest on the ground in dense marshes, with nests hidden in vegetation near water. Females use grasses and down to construct these concealed nests.
They mainly eat plant material, including seeds and aquatic vegetation, and occasionally insects and invertebrates. Their diet varies seasonally with available food.
Not endangered but at risk due to habitat loss. Conservation focuses on wetland preservation and restoration in Arizona to maintain their habitats.
Where to find Ducks in Arizona
In Arizona, known for its arid landscapes, finding ducks can be a delightful surprise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Despite its desert reputation, Arizona boasts several aquatic habitats teeming with duck populations, especially during migration seasons.
To successfully spot ducks, the best approach is to visit key water-rich environments early in the morning or late in the evening when these birds are most active.
For a rewarding duck-watching experience, consider these four prime locations:
- Havasu National Wildlife Refuge: Situated along the Colorado River, this refuge offers lush wetlands and backwaters, making it a haven for a variety of duck species.
- Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert: This urban oasis features ponds and streams that attract ducks year-round, providing easy access for viewing.
- Patagonia Lake State Park: Located in Southern Arizona, the park’s lake and surrounding riparian areas are hotspots for waterfowl.
- Cibola National Wildlife Refuge: Straddling the Arizona-California border, this refuge is particularly popular during the winter months when migrating ducks settle in.
Carrying a field guide, using binoculars or a spotting scope, and wearing inconspicuous clothing can enhance the duck-watching experience in these diverse Arizona locales.
Conclusion
Arizona, with its unexpected array of aquatic habitats, offers birdwatchers a unique opportunity to observe diverse duck species. From the lush wetlands of Havasu National Wildlife Refuge to the urban ponds of Gilbert’s Riparian Preserve, the state’s varied landscapes provide ideal settings for both avid birders and casual observers alike.
