Louisiana’s vast wetlands and waterways make it a paradise for ducks and those who love them. The state is home to a remarkable variety of duck species, thanks to its rich marshes, swamps, and coastal areas. From the familiar Mallard and Wood Duck to the less common Fulvous Whistling Duck, these birds are an integral part of Louisiana’s natural landscape.
Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just someone who enjoys the outdoors, exploring the diverse duck population offers a unique glimpse into the state’s vibrant ecosystem. Join us as we dive into the world of ducks in Louisiana.
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: Migratory and common
The Mallard is widespread across North America, Europe, and Asia. In Louisiana, it’s a common sight in wetlands and ponds. Males boast a glossy green head, white neck ring, chestnut-brown chest, and gray body. Females are mottled brown with orange bills, blending well into their surroundings.
Mallards typically nest on the ground near water, hidden among tall grasses or reeds. The female selects the site and builds a simple bowl-shaped nest lined with down feathers. She lays around 8 to 13 eggs, which she incubates alone for about 28 days.
Mallards have a diverse diet, feeding on seeds, aquatic vegetation, insects, and small fish. They dabble on the water’s surface or tip forward to reach submerged plants. In agricultural areas, they may also forage in fields for grains and other crops.
Mallards are abundant and widely distributed, benefiting from wetland conservation efforts. Hunting regulations and habitat protection have helped maintain their populations. They are considered a species of least concern, but ongoing conservation ensures they continue to thrive across their range.
2. 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: Migratory and common
Blue-winged Teal breed in North America and migrate to Louisiana for winter. Males have a blue-gray head with a white crescent in front of the eye and a speckled brown body. Females are mottled brown with a darker line through the eye. Both sexes show blue wing patches in flight.
Blue-winged Teal nest on the ground in dense vegetation close to water. The female creates a shallow nest lined with grasses and down. She lays about 6 to 14 eggs and incubates them alone for 21 to 27 days.
Their diet consists of aquatic insects, crustaceans, and seeds. They forage in shallow waters by dabbling and filter-feeding. During migration, they may also feed in flooded fields and wetlands rich in invertebrates.
Blue-winged Teal populations are healthy but rely on wetland habitats that are vulnerable to drainage and development. Conservation programs aim to protect these areas, ensuring the species continues to thrive across its range.
3. 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: Migratory and common
Gadwalls are found throughout North America and Eurasia, favouring freshwater wetlands. In Louisiana, they are common during migration and winter. Males have subtle gray-brown bodies, black tails, and a white speculum on the wing. Females are mottled brown, similar to female Mallards but with a thinner bill.
Gadwalls nest on the ground, often some distance from water. The female hides the nest in dense vegetation or under shrubs. She lays about 7 to 12 eggs and incubates them for approximately 26 days without assistance from the male.
They primarily feed on aquatic vegetation, such as algae and pondweeds. Gadwalls dabble on the water’s surface or tip forward to reach plants underwater. They occasionally eat small invertebrates, especially during the breeding season.
Gadwalls have experienced population increases due to successful conservation measures. Wetland protection and management have provided suitable habitats. They are currently not considered at risk, but continued efforts are essential to maintain healthy populations.
4. 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 uncommon
Buffleheads migrate from northern regions to Louisiana’s coastal waters in winter. Males are small with a large white patch on the back of their iridescent dark head, black back, and white underparts. Females are grayish with a smaller white cheek patch. They are swift flyers and active divers.
Buffleheads nest in tree cavities, often using old woodpecker holes. The female lays 4 to 17 eggs and incubates them for about 30 days. Due to their small size, they can use cavities that larger ducks cannot, reducing competition.
They feed on aquatic invertebrates, small fish, and some plant matter. Diving in shallow waters, they forage near the bottom. Their diet varies seasonally, adapting to the most abundant food sources.
Bufflehead populations are stable, supported by forest and wetland conservation. Protecting nesting sites and managing forests are essential. They are less affected by hunting due to their small size and rapid flight.
5. 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: Migratory and rare
Cinnamon Teal are rare visitors to Louisiana, more common in the western U.S. Males have a rich cinnamon-red head and body, red eyes, and a dark bill. Females are mottled brown, resembling Blue-winged Teal females but slightly larger. They prefer shallow wetlands with abundant vegetation.
Cinnamon Teal nest on the ground in dense vegetation near water. The female constructs a nest lined with grasses and down, laying 9 to 12 eggs. She incubates them alone for about 21 to 25 days while the male departs after incubation begins.
Their diet includes aquatic insects, seeds, and plant matter. They forage in shallow waters by dabbling and filter-feeding. Their feeding supports wetland health by controlling insect populations and dispersing seeds.
Cinnamon Teal populations are stable but depend on wetland habitats. Conservation focuses on habitat protection and monitoring potential threats. Maintaining healthy wetlands is key to their continued success.
6. 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: Migratory and common
The American Wigeon ranges across North America, migrating to Louisiana in winter. Males are distinctive with a white crown, green eye patch, and pinkish-brown body. Females are grayish-brown with a gray head and lack the bold head markings. They often graze on vegetation in shallow wetlands.
American Wigeons nest on the ground, often in upland areas near water. The female builds a nest concealed in grasses or shrubs. She lays 6 to 12 eggs and incubates them alone for about 23 to 25 days, while the male departs after incubation begins.
Their diet includes aquatic plants, grasses, and occasionally insects. They are known for grazing on land and stealing food from diving ducks. Their short bills are adapted for nibbling vegetation rather than digging deep into the water.
American Wigeons have stable populations thanks to wetland conservation and regulated hunting. Protecting breeding and wintering habitats remains crucial. Monitoring ensures that any changes in population trends are addressed promptly.
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: Migratory and common
Green-winged Teal are widespread in North America, frequenting Louisiana’s wetlands. Males have a chestnut head with a green ear patch, a gray body, and a vertical white stripe on the side. Females are mottled brown, smaller than most ducks, and both sexes display green wing patches when flying.
Green-winged Teal nest on the ground, often concealed in thick vegetation near water. The female builds a nest lined with down and lays 6 to 9 eggs. She incubates them for about 21 to 23 days without help from the male.
They feed on seeds, aquatic insects, and small crustaceans. Foraging occurs in shallow waters where they dabble and filter-feed. Their small size allows them to exploit feeding areas unavailable to larger ducks.
Green-winged Teal are abundant, benefiting from wetland conservation and management. Maintaining healthy wetlands is essential for their continued success. Monitoring helps detect any potential threats to their populations.
8. 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: Breeding and common
Black-bellied Whistling Ducks are residents of Louisiana’s wetlands. They have long legs, pink bills, and bold plumage with chestnut bodies, black belly, and white wing patches visible in flight. Both sexes look alike. They often perch in trees and emit a distinctive whistling call.
Black-bellied Whistling Ducks nest in tree cavities, nest boxes, or on the ground in dense vegetation. The female lays 9 to 18 eggs, and both parents share incubation duties for about 25 to 30 days. They often nest in colonies.
They feed on seeds, grains, and aquatic plants. Foraging occurs in wetlands and agricultural fields, mainly at night. Their diet makes them important for seed dispersal but can lead to conflicts with farmers.
Populations have expanded due to adaptability and protection. Conservation includes monitoring agricultural impacts and preserving wetlands. They are a success story of a species thriving alongside human development.
9. 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
Ruddy Ducks breed in North America and winter in Louisiana. Males in breeding plumage have bright chestnut bodies, white cheeks, and blue bills. In winter, they are duller with gray-brown colouring. Females are brown with a dark line across pale cheeks. They often hold their tails upright.
Ruddy Ducks build nests in dense marsh vegetation over water. The female lays 5 to 15 eggs and incubates them for about 23 to 26 days. Nests are well-concealed, and the ducklings are able to swim shortly after hatching.
They feed on aquatic invertebrates and seeds. Diving to the bottom of ponds and lakes, they use their broad bills to sift through mud. Their diet helps control insect populations and supports wetland health.
Ruddy Ducks are generally stable but face threats from habitat loss. Conservation focuses on wetland preservation and controlling invasive species. In some regions, they are invasive themselves, requiring careful management.
10. 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: Migratory and rare
Surf Scoters breed in northern Canada and are rare migrants along Louisiana’s coast. Males are striking with black plumage, white patches on the forehead and nape, and a colourful bill with orange, white, and black patterns. Females are brown with two white facial patches. They favour coastal waters.
Surf Scoters nest in northern boreal forests near freshwater lakes. The female builds a nest on the ground, hidden under vegetation or debris. She lays 5 to 9 eggs and incubates them for about 28 to 30 days, with no help from the male.
They feed mainly on molluscs, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. Diving in coastal waters, they use their strong bills to pry prey from substrates. Their feeding helps control shellfish populations in marine ecosystems.
Surf Scoters face threats from oil spills and habitat disturbance. Conservation efforts include monitoring pollution and protecting coastal habitats. Research into migration patterns aids in understanding and mitigating risks.
11. Fulvous Whistling Duck
- Scientific name: Dendrocygna bicolor
- Life span: 5-7 years
- Size: 5-7 years
- Weight: 5-7 years
- Wingspan: 91-106 cm (36-42 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and uncommon
Fulvous Whistling Ducks are uncommon residents in Louisiana’s marshes. They are tall with long necks, tawny brown bodies, and darker wings. Both sexes have a pale stripe along the flanks and a gray bill. They are often found in rice fields and shallow wetlands.
Fulvous Whistling Ducks build nests in dense marsh vegetation or on floating platforms. The female lays 12 to 16 eggs, and both parents incubate them for about 24 to 26 days. They often nest in small colonies.
Their diet consists mainly of seeds of aquatic plants and grasses. They forage by dabbling in shallow waters and may feed in flooded fields. Their feeding habits can benefit wetland ecosystems through seed dispersal.
Populations are stable but localized. Conservation efforts focus on wetland preservation and managing water levels. Protecting their habitats ensures they continue to thrive in their preferred environments.
12. 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: Migratory and common
Northern Shovelers are found across North America, especially during migration in Louisiana. They are known for their large, spoon-shaped bills. Males display a green head, white chest, and reddish-brown sides. Females are mottled brown with a large bill, which they use to filter food from the water.
Northern Shovelers nest on the ground in grassy areas near shallow wetlands. The female selects a well-hidden spot and lays 9 to 12 eggs. She incubates them for about 22 to 25 days, while the male typically leaves during incubation.
They feed on small aquatic organisms, plankton, and seeds. Using their large, spoon-shaped bills equipped with comb-like structures, they filter food from the water. They often forage in groups, spinning in circles to stir up food.
Northern Shovelers are generally common, with stable populations. Conservation efforts focus on preserving wetlands and controlling water pollution. Habitat protection ensures they continue to find suitable feeding and breeding areas.
13. 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
Ring-necked Ducks breed in northern areas and winter in Louisiana. Males have a black back, gray sides, and a distinctive white ring on the bill, though the chestnut neck ring is hard to see. Females are brown with a white eye ring. They favour freshwater ponds and lakes.
Ring-necked Ducks nest in shallow wetlands, constructing nests from vegetation. The female lays 6 to 14 eggs and incubates them for about 25 to 29 days. Nests are often built over water, attached to emergent plants for stability.
Their diet includes aquatic plants, seeds, and invertebrates. They dive to forage, favouring shallow waters with abundant vegetation. Their feeding habits help control aquatic plant growth and support wetland ecosystems.
Ring-necked Ducks are generally abundant, benefiting from wetland conservation. Monitoring ensures that populations remain healthy. Habitat protection and sustainable hunting practices contribute to their ongoing success.
14. 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
Common Mergansers are rare winter visitors to Louisiana from northern regions. Males have a glossy green head, red bill, white body, and black back. Females have a reddish-brown head with a distinct shaggy crest, gray body, and white chin patch. They prefer large rivers and lakes.
Common Mergansers nest in tree cavities or rock crevices near large bodies of water. The female lays 6 to 17 eggs and incubates them for about 28 to 35 days. They often use natural cavities or nest boxes in mature forests.
Their diet consists mainly of fish, which they catch by diving. Equipped with serrated bills, they are efficient hunters. They also consume aquatic insects and crustaceans, especially when fish are less available.
Common Mergansers are sensitive to water pollution, which affects their food supply. Conservation focuses on maintaining clean waterways and preserving mature forests for nesting. Populations are stable but require monitoring.
15. 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: Migratory and uncommon
Greater Scaup migrate from northern breeding grounds to Louisiana’s coastal areas in winter. Males have a greenish iridescent head, bright yellow eyes, black chest, and gray back. Females are brown with a white patch at the base of the bill. They prefer larger bodies of water.
Greater Scaup nest in northern tundra regions near water. The female builds a nest on the ground, lined with down. She lays 5 to 13 eggs and incubates them for about 24 to 28 days. Nesting sites are often on islands or shorelines.
They feed on molluscs, aquatic insects, and plants. As diving ducks, they forage underwater, often in deeper waters. Their strong diving abilities allow them to exploit food sources unavailable to surface feeders.
Greater Scaup populations have declined due to habitat loss and pollution. Conservation efforts focus on monitoring contaminants and protecting habitats. International collaboration is important since they migrate long distances.
16. 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
Lesser Scaup are widespread in North America, wintering in Louisiana. Males have a black head with purple sheen, yellow eyes, black chest, and grayish back. Females are brown with a white patch near the bill, similar to Greater Scaup but favouring smaller lakes and ponds.
Lesser Scaup nest near freshwater lakes and ponds. The female constructs a nest on the ground, hidden among vegetation. She lays 9 to 11 eggs and incubates them for about 23 to 27 days. Nesting sites are often remote to avoid predators.
Their diet consists of aquatic invertebrates, especially clams and insects. They dive to forage, often in groups. Their feeding helps maintain balanced aquatic ecosystems by controlling invertebrate populations.
Lesser Scaup numbers have fluctuated, prompting research into causes. Conservation efforts include habitat protection and studying environmental factors. Ensuring clean, healthy wetlands is key to supporting their populations.
17. 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: Migratory and common
Northern Pintails breed in northern regions but winter in southern areas like Louisiana. They are elegant ducks with slender necks and long, pointed tails. Males display a chocolate-brown head, white neck stripe, and gray body. Females are mottled brown, matching the wetlands they inhabit during migration.
Northern Pintails nest on the ground, often in open areas near wetlands. The female creates a shallow depression lined with grasses and down. She lays 7 to 9 eggs and is solely responsible for incubation, which lasts about 23 days.
Their diet consists mainly of aquatic plants, seeds, and insects. They forage by dabbling in shallow waters and are known to feed in flooded fields. During migration, they may adjust their diet based on available food sources.
Northern Pintail populations have faced declines due to habitat loss and drought in breeding areas. Conservation efforts focus on wetland restoration and protection. Organizations monitor their numbers to ensure sustainable hunting practices and to promote population recovery.
18. 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 common
Canvasbacks migrate through North America and winter in Louisiana’s wetlands. Males have a reddish-brown head, black chest, and white body with a canvas-like appearance. Females are light brown with a darker head and neck. Their sloping profile and long neck make them distinctive among diving ducks.
Canvasbacks nest over water in dense marshes, building platforms of vegetation. The female lays 7 to 9 eggs and incubates them for about 24 to 29 days. Nests are anchored to emergent plants, providing safety from some predators.
Their diet is mainly aquatic plants, especially wild celery tubers. They also consume seeds and invertebrates. As diving ducks, they forage underwater, using their strong legs to propel themselves in search of food.
Canvasbacks have faced population fluctuations due to habitat loss and hunting. Conservation efforts include wetland restoration and regulated hunting. Protecting their breeding and wintering grounds is essential for their continued stability.
19. 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 common
Wood Ducks inhabit wooded swamps and streams across North America, breeding in Louisiana. Males are striking with iridescent green and purple crests, red eyes, and intricate patterns on their chest. Females are gray-brown with a white teardrop eye patch. They nest in tree cavities near water.
Wood Ducks nest in tree cavities near water, often using old woodpecker holes. The female lays 7 to 15 eggs and incubates them for about 28 to 37 days. Ducklings leap from the nest shortly after hatching to reach the water below.
They feed on seeds, fruits, insects, and aquatic invertebrates. Foraging occurs in wetlands and forests, both in water and on land. Their varied diet helps them adapt to different habitats throughout the year.
Wood Ducks were once declining due to habitat loss and hunting but have rebounded thanks to conservation. Nest box programs and wetland protection have been pivotal in their recovery, showcasing a successful conservation story.
20. 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
Hooded Mergansers breed and reside in Louisiana’s wooded wetlands. Males have a striking black and white crest that they can raise or lower, a black back, and white chest with black bars. Females are brown with a reddish crest. They nest in tree cavities near water.
Hooded Mergansers nest in tree cavities near water. The female lays 7 to 15 eggs and incubates them for about 32 to 33 days. They accept nest boxes, which helps in areas lacking natural cavities. Ducklings head to water soon after hatching.
Their diet consists mainly of small fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. They dive underwater, using their serrated bills to grasp slippery prey. Their eyesight is adapted for clear vision both above and below water.
Hooded Mergansers benefit from wetland protection and nest box programs. Forest conservation ensures the availability of nesting sites. Populations are stable, but habitat loss remains a potential threat.
21. 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 uncommon
Red-breasted Mergansers breed in northern areas and migrate to Louisiana’s coasts. Males have a spiky crest, dark green head, red eyes, and a reddish-brown chest. Females have a shaggy crest, gray body, and rusty head. Both sexes have slender, serrated bills ideal for catching fish.
Red-breasted Mergansers nest on the ground near water, often in sheltered spots under bushes or rocks. The female lays 5 to 13 eggs and incubates them for about 29 to 35 days. Nests are lined with down for insulation.
They primarily eat small fish, diving underwater to catch them. Their serrated bills help grip slippery prey. They forage in coastal waters, lakes, and rivers, often in groups, driving fish into shallower areas.
Populations are generally stable, but they are sensitive to water pollution and habitat disturbance. Conservation efforts focus on clean water initiatives and protecting coastal habitats essential for feeding and nesting.
22. 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 common
Redheads are found across North America, migrating to Louisiana during winter. Males have a copper-red head, black breast, and gray body. Females are uniform brown with a pale face. They prefer open water and are often seen in flocks with other diving ducks like Canvasbacks.
Redheads nest in marshes, building floating nests anchored to vegetation. The female lays 7 to 10 eggs, sometimes parasitizing other ducks’ nests. She incubates them for about 24 to 28 days. Their nesting over water helps reduce predation risks.
They feed on aquatic plants, seeds, and invertebrates. As diving ducks, they forage underwater, often in deeper waters than dabbling ducks. Their diet varies seasonally, adapting to available food sources.
Redhead populations have been stable but are sensitive to wetland degradation. Conservation focuses on habitat preservation and monitoring hunting pressures. International cooperation is vital, as they migrate across borders.
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: Migratory and uncommon
Common Goldeneyes breed in northern forests and winter along Louisiana’s coast. Males have a greenish-black head with a circular white spot near the bill, golden eyes, and black-and-white patterned body. Females have a chocolate-brown head, gray body, and yellow eyes. They prefer deep waters and are agile divers.
Common Goldeneyes nest in tree cavities near northern lakes and rivers. The female lays 5 to 16 eggs and incubates them for about 28 to 32 days. They readily use nest boxes, which helps in areas where natural cavities are scarce.
Their diet includes aquatic invertebrates, fish eggs, and small fish. They dive underwater to forage, often in cold, clear waters. Their feeding habits make them important for controlling aquatic insect populations.
Common Goldeneyes benefit from nest box programs and habitat conservation. Protecting old-growth forests and waterways supports their nesting and feeding needs. Populations are stable, but monitoring ensures they remain healthy.
24. Mottled Duck
- Scientific name: Anas fulvigula
- Life span: 5-10 years
- Size: 48-56 cm (19-22 in)
- Weight: 600-1,070 g (1.3-2.4 lb)
- Wingspan: 91-102 cm (36-40 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
The Mottled Duck is a resident of the Gulf Coast, including Louisiana. It’s similar to a female Mallard but darker. Both sexes are mottled brown with a lighter head and a dark eye line. The bill is yellowish in males and more orange in females, making identification subtle.
Mottled Ducks nest on the ground in marshes or grasslands near water. The female builds a nest concealed in vegetation and lays 8 to 12 eggs. She incubates them for about 24 to 28 days, with no assistance from the male.
Their diet includes seeds, aquatic vegetation, and small invertebrates. They forage by dabbling in shallow waters and grazing on land. Being non-migratory, they rely on local habitats for year-round feeding.
Mottled Ducks face habitat loss due to wetland drainage and development. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and management. They are a species of concern, making ongoing protection crucial for their survival.
Where to find Ducks in Louisiana
Louisiana’s wetlands are teeming with ducks, making it a fantastic place for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. To spot these feathered friends, venture out early in the morning or late afternoon when they’re most active. One top spot is the Atchafalaya Basin, the largest river swamp in the country, where you can paddle through cypress-filled waters while watching ducks glide by.
Another great location is the Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge, offering boardwalks that bring you close to a variety of duck species. The Sabine National Wildlife Refuge is a vast marshland that’s a magnet for ducks during migration seasons. Lastly, visit the Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge, known for its freshwater marshes and open waters that attract countless ducks.
Grab your binoculars and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Louisiana’s wetlands—you won’t be disappointed.
Conclusion
Louisiana’s diverse wetlands provide an unparalleled opportunity to experience a wide array of duck species, both breeding residents and migratory visitors. From the common Mallard and Wood Duck to the rare sightings of a Surf Scoter, the state’s rich habitats are a haven for these birds.
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply enjoy the outdoors, exploring Louisiana’s duck populations offers a rewarding and unforgettable experience. So come and discover the vibrant world of ducks that call Louisiana home.
