In the picturesque landscapes of Maine, a vibrant cast of ducks takes center stage, adding a touch of charm and diversity to the region’s waters. From the tranquil shores of lakes to the winding paths of coastal estuaries, these waterfowl captivate both casual observers and dedicated bird enthusiasts.
This article delves into the fascinating world of ducks in Maine, exploring their nesting behaviors, dietary preferences, and the conservation efforts aimed at safeguarding their habitats.
Join us on a journey of discovery as we unveil the intricate lives of these feathered residents, highlighting their vital role in Maine’s intricate ecosystem.
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
The Mallard, a versatile and striking duck species, is renowned for its widespread distribution across various continents. With its vibrant green head, yellow bill, and intricate feather patterns, the Mallard adds a touch of brilliance to diverse habitats.
Mallards exhibit nesting behavior characterized by a preference for concealed sites near water bodies, often opting for vegetative cover to shield their nests. This strategy enhances the protection of their vulnerable ducklings during the incubation and early rearing period. Nesting sites can include marshes, wetlands, and grassy areas along shorelines.
Mallards are known for their versatile and adaptable diet, encompassing a range of food sources depending on the season. Their diet includes aquatic plants, seeds, grains, insects, and small fish.
The Mallard, once facing challenges due to habitat loss and hunting, has benefited from conservation efforts focused on wetland preservation and habitat restoration. These initiatives have contributed to the Mallard’s population stability and highlight the significance of safeguarding vital wetland ecosystems for the sustenance of this iconic waterfowl species.
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
The Northern Pintail, an elegant and distinctive duck species, graces diverse habitats across the Northern Hemisphere. With its long, slender neck and pointed tail feathers, the Pintail stands out among its avian counterparts.
Known for their remarkable aerial acrobatics during courtship displays, these agile ducks can perform mesmerizing synchronized flights.
Northern Pintails prefer open, grassy areas for nesting, demonstrating their preference for spacious and concealed nesting sites.
These dabbling ducks feed on aquatic plants, seeds, and small invertebrates, embodying their diverse and adaptable dietary choices.
Conservation undertakings safeguard Northern Pintails, preserving their elegance and contribution to Maine’s avian mosaic.
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
The Northern Shoveler, known for its unique spatula-shaped bill, is found across North America, Europe, and Asia. These ducks boast vibrant plumage and are skilled filter-feeders, scooping up food from the water’s surface.
Northern Shovelers exhibit nesting behavior that involves creating nests in shallow depressions near water bodies. They often select concealed sites in marshes, wetlands, and grassy areas, where they build nests lined with down feathers for insulation.
The Northern Shoveler’s diet primarily consists of aquatic invertebrates, including crustaceans, insects, and molluscs. Their distinctive feeding behavior involves using their uniquely shaped bills to filter plankton and small organisms from the water.
Conservation efforts have focused on preserving wetland habitats that provide essential foraging areas for Northern Shovelers. The species’ adaptability to various wetland types has contributed to their resilience, making them an important indicator of wetland health.
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
Lesser Scaups are medium-sized diving ducks that can be found in North America and Eurasia. Males sport striking black and white plumage with yellow eyes, while females exhibit mottled brown patterns.
Fun fact: Lesser Scaups are exceptional divers, capable of reaching depths of up to 20 meters (66 feet) in search of aquatic invertebrates.
Lesser Scaups exhibit nesting behavior that involves selecting concealed nesting sites within dense marshes and wetland habitats. They often build nests among emergent vegetation.
Lesser Scaups have a varied diet that includes aquatic plants, insects, mollusks, and crustaceans. Their feeding habits are adapted to their diving behavior.
Conservation efforts focus on maintaining healthy wetland ecosystems, which are crucial for the breeding and feeding success of Lesser Scaups. These efforts contribute to the conservation of this widespread diving duck.
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
American Wigeons are migratory dabbling ducks that breed in North America and winter in parts of Central and South America. These ducks have a beautiful mix of chestnut, gray, and white feathers, with males showcasing a striking green eyepatch.
Fun fact: American Wigeons are often referred to as “baldpates” due to their light-colored foreheads.
American Wigeons exhibit nesting behavior characterized by a preference for concealed nesting sites near water. They create nests in grassy areas, often utilizing the vegetation as cover to protect their eggs and ducklings.
American Wigeons have a varied diet that includes aquatic plants, seeds, and small invertebrates. They are often observed dabbling on the water’s surface or grazing on land for food resources.
Conservation initiatives support American Wigeons by focusing on habitat protection and restoration, particularly wetlands and marshes. Their adaptability and reliance on diverse food sources make them important contributors to wetland ecosystems.
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
Wood Ducks are stunningly colourful ducks native to North America. Males are adorned with iridescent green, purple, and white plumage, while females exhibit more subtle shades of brown and gray.
Fun fact: Wood Ducks are the only North American duck species that regularly produce two broods in a single nesting season, maximizing their reproductive success.
Wood Ducks are cavity nesters, often using natural tree hollows or artificial nesting boxes as their preferred nesting sites. Their nesting behavior involves selecting concealed locations near water bodies, such as swamps, ponds, and marshes.
Wood Ducks have an omnivorous diet that encompasses a wide range of food sources. They consume aquatic plants, seeds, fruits, and insects, as well as small fish and amphibians. This versatile feeding behavior allows them to adapt their diet based on the availability of resources.
Wood Ducks have been the focus of conservation initiatives, including the placement of nesting boxes and the restoration of wetland habitats. These efforts have led to the recovery of Wood Duck populations and serve as a testament to the positive impact of habitat restoration on waterfowl species.
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
Blue-winged Teals are small dabbling ducks found in North and South America. Males feature a distinct blue patch on their wings, a chestnut-coloured head, and a speckled body. Females are mottled brown with a pale eye ring.
Fun fact: Blue-winged Teals are exceptional long-distance migrants, traveling thousands of kilometers during their annual migration.
Blue-winged Teals exhibit nesting behavior characterized by concealed nesting sites in grassy areas near water bodies. They create their nests within depressions in the ground, often lined with grass and down feathers for insulation.
Blue-winged Teals are versatile feeders, consuming a variety of food items. Their diet includes aquatic plants, seeds, insects, and small invertebrates. This adaptability allows them to thrive in diverse wetland ecosystems.
Blue-winged Teals have benefited from wetland conservation efforts that focus on preserving nesting and foraging habitats. These actions support their population stability and underscore the importance of maintaining healthy wetland ecosystems for migratory waterfowl.
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
Gadwalls are widespread ducks found across Europe, Asia, and North America. These medium-sized dabbling ducks exhibit a mottled gray-brown plumage, with males boasting a distinctive black rear and white speculum.
Fun fact: Gadwalls are known for their quiet and subtle courtship displays compared to other duck species.
Gadwalls exhibit nesting behavior characterized by selecting concealed nesting sites in dense vegetation near water. They often build nests among reeds, grasses, and other plant materials to provide protection for their eggs.
The Gadwall’s diet primarily consists of aquatic plants, seeds, and small invertebrates. They are versatile feeders, capable of foraging both on land and in water.
Conservation efforts for Gadwalls focus on preserving wetland habitats and maintaining suitable nesting and foraging areas. Their adaptability and important role in wetland ecosystems highlight the need for wetland conservation.
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
Green-winged Teals are small dabbling ducks found throughout North and South America. Males display a stunning combination of brown, green, and chestnut plumage, while females showcase mottled brown patterns.
Fun fact: Despite their small size, Green-winged Teals are swift flyers and can reach impressive speeds during migration.
Green-winged Teals exhibit nesting behavior characterized by hidden nests in proximity to water. They create concealed nests within grassy depressions, reed beds, and marshy areas, ensuring that their broods remain well-hidden and protected from potential predators.
The Green-winged Teal’s diet is predominantly herbivorous, focusing on a variety of aquatic plants, seeds, and grains. However, during their foraging activities, they also consume a notable amount of aquatic invertebrates, showcasing their opportunistic feeding tendencies.
Green-winged Teals have benefited from conservation actions aimed at preserving and restoring wetland habitats, which are crucial for their breeding and migratory patterns. These efforts emphasize the need to sustain healthy wetland ecosystems that support the diverse dietary and habitat requirements of this small dabbling duck.
10. American Black Duck
- Scientific name: Anas rubripes
- Life span: 5-10 years
- Size: 54-63 cm (21-25 in)
- Weight: 727-1,380 g (1.6-3 lb)
- Wingspan: 91-102 cm (36-40 in)
- Status: Least Concern
American Black Ducks inhabit wetlands across eastern North America. With their dark brown plumage, pale face, and yellowish bill, they are easily distinguished.
Fun fact: American Black Ducks are known for their tendency to hybridize with other duck species, making them a subject of interest for hybridization studies.
American Black Ducks are discerning nesters, often selecting concealed sites within marshes, wetlands, and grassy areas. Their nests are meticulously hidden among cattails, grasses, and other vegetation, minimizing the risk of predation and enhancing the safety of their offspring during the crucial nesting and fledgling stages.
The American Black Duck’s diet reflects its adaptability to a variety of food sources. Their feeding habits include aquatic plants, seeds, grains, and invertebrates found in shallow water bodies and wetland environments. This dietary flexibility allows them to thrive in different ecosystems.
Conservation efforts aimed at protecting wetlands and managing hunting activities have contributed to the stabilization of American Black Duck populations. Once facing concerns related to habitat loss and hybridization with Mallards, targeted conservation actions have emphasized the importance of preserving the unique genetic integrity of this distinct North American species.
11. 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
Ring-necked Ducks can be found in North America, Europe, and Asia. Males exhibit striking black plumage with a distinctive white ring around their bills, while females showcase a mottled brown pattern.
Fun fact: Ring-necked Ducks are known for their impressive diving abilities, capable of staying submerged for up to a minute.
Ring-necked Ducks exhibit nesting behavior that involves selecting concealed nesting sites within their wetland habitats. They construct nests amid dense vegetation such as cattails and reeds, often near the water’s edge, ensuring the safety and protection of their nesting sites.
The Ring-necked Duck’s diet primarily consists of plant material, including aquatic plants, seeds, and grains. However, their feeding habits also encompass a variety of aquatic invertebrates, showcasing a flexible and adaptable approach to sourcing food resources.
Conservation efforts have focused on the preservation and restoration of wetland habitats, benefiting Ring-necked Duck populations. These initiatives acknowledge the species’ ecological importance and underscore the significance of maintaining suitable breeding and feeding areas within their preferred wetland environments.
12. 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
Buffleheads are small diving ducks found across North America. Males feature eye-catching black and white plumage with iridescent green and purple head feathers. Females exhibit a similar pattern but with a chestnut-coloured head.
Fun fact: Buffleheads have incredibly fast wingbeats, reaching speeds of up to 400 beats per minute.
Buffleheads exhibit nesting behavior characterized by their preference for concealed nesting sites in tree cavities or nesting boxes near water. They often choose sites in wooded areas, utilizing natural or artificial cavities.
Buffleheads have a diet that primarily consists of aquatic invertebrates, including insects, crustaceans, and molluscs. Their small size and agile diving abilities allow them to efficiently forage for food underwater.
Conservation efforts for Buffleheads focus on maintaining suitable nesting habitats through the installation of nesting boxes and the preservation of natural tree hollows. These actions contribute to the conservation of this charismatic diving duck.
13. 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
Ruddy Ducks inhabit wetlands in North and South America. Males display a vibrant chestnut body, blue bill, and a white cheek patch. Females have a more subtle brown plumage with a dark crown.
Fun fact: Ruddy Ducks are known for their distinctive courtship display called “bubble display” where males blow bubbles through their bills to impress females.
Ruddy Ducks exhibit nesting behavior characterized by hidden nesting sites among emergent vegetation near water. They often create nests within dense plant growth to provide protection for their eggs.
Ruddy Ducks primarily consume aquatic plants, insects, and small fish. Their diet reflects their adaptability to both plant and animal food sources.
Conservation initiatives support Ruddy Ducks by preserving wetland habitats and creating nesting sites. Their unique appearance and behaviors make them a focal point of wetland conservation efforts.
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
Canvasbacks are diving ducks that breed in North America and winter in parts of the United States and Mexico. Males exhibit a striking reddish-brown head, black chest, and white body, while females have a mottled brown appearance.
Fun fact: Canvasbacks are known for their exceptional diving abilities, capable of diving up to depths of 6 meters (20 feet) in search of food.
Canvasbacks exhibit nesting behavior characterized by their preference for nesting sites in grassy areas near water bodies. They create nests among reeds and grasses, often close to open water.
The Canvasback’s diet primarily consists of aquatic plants, including submerged vegetation and algae. They also consume invertebrates such as molluscs and crustaceans, which they obtain through diving.
Conservation efforts for Canvasbacks focus on maintaining suitable habitat conditions, including wetlands and aquatic vegetation. These actions contribute to the conservation of this distinctive diving duck species.
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
Greater Scaups are diving ducks found across North America, Europe, and Asia. Males showcase black heads, white sides, and a pale blue bill, while females have a more subdued brown plumage.
Fun fact: Greater Scaups are expert divers and can plunge as deep as 8 meters (26 feet) to forage for mollusks and crustaceans.
Greater Scaups exhibit nesting behavior characterized by selecting concealed nesting sites in dense vegetation near water. They create nests among reeds, grasses, and other plant materials to protect their eggs.
The Greater Scaup’s diet primarily consists of aquatic invertebrates, molluscs, and crustaceans. They use their specialized bills to filter and capture food from the water.
Conservation actions focus on the preservation of wetland habitats, which are essential for the breeding and feeding success of Greater Scaups. These efforts contribute to the conservation of this diving duck species.
16. 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
Hooded Mergansers are small diving ducks native to North America. Males exhibit a striking black and white pattern with a large, fan-shaped crest on their heads. Females have a cinnamon-brown crest and a mottled brown body.
Fun fact: Hooded Mergansers have a unique courtship behavior where males expand and display their crests to attract females.
Hooded Mergansers exhibit unique nesting behavior by selecting tree cavities as nesting sites near water bodies. Their choice of nesting locations often includes hollows in trees or nesting boxes, which provide protection for their eggs and young ducklings.
Hooded Mergansers have a specialized diet that primarily consists of small fish, aquatic insects, and crustaceans. Their foraging involves skilled diving and underwater hunting, enabling them to capture their prey beneath the water’s surface.
Conservation efforts have focused on maintaining suitable nesting habitats for Hooded Mergansers, including the preservation of wetland areas and the installation of nesting boxes. These efforts contribute to the species’ continued presence and successful breeding in various aquatic environments.
17. 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
Red-breasted Mergansers are diving ducks found in North America, Europe, and Asia. Males have a distinctive shaggy crest, reddish-brown neck, and gray body. Females have a more subdued brown appearance.
Fun fact: Red-breasted Mergansers are excellent divers and can swim underwater with their wings while pursuing fish prey.
Red-breasted Mergansers exhibit nesting behavior that involves concealed nesting sites near water bodies. They often nest on the ground, utilizing well-hidden sites among rocks, vegetation, or beach dunes.
Red-breasted Mergansers primarily feed on small fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. Their foraging involves skilled diving and underwater hunting.
Conservation initiatives support Red-breasted Mergansers by preserving coastal habitats and providing nesting and foraging opportunities. Their striking appearance and ecological role make them a target of conservation efforts.
18. Black Scoter
- Scientific name: Melanitta americana
- Life span: 10-15 years
- Size: 43-54 cm (17-21 in)
- Weight: 43-54 cm (17-21 in)
- Wingspan: 79-91 cm (31-36 in)
- Status: Least Concern
Black Scoters are sea ducks that breed in northern North America and Eurasia. Males have all-black plumage with a bright yellow knob on their bill. Females are brown with paler cheeks.
Fun fact: Black Scoters are known for their incredible long-distance migrations, with some individuals traveling over 3,000 miles during their annual journey.
Black Scoters exhibit nesting behavior that involves concealed nesting sites in tundra habitats near water bodies. They often nest on the ground, using vegetation or depressions for protection.
The Black Scoter’s diet primarily consists of mollusks, crustaceans, and other marine invertebrates. They dive to feed on their prey, often diving to significant depths.
Conservation initiatives for Black Scoters emphasize the protection of their breeding habitats in the Arctic and the preservation of marine habitats along their migration routes. These efforts contribute to the conservation of this sea duck species.
19. 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
Common Goldeneyes are diving ducks that inhabit North America and parts of Europe and Asia. Males exhibit striking black and white plumage with a golden-yellow eye and a conspicuous white patch on their face.
Fun fact: Common Goldeneyes have an incredible underwater vision, allowing them to spot prey even in murky waters.
Common Goldeneyes exhibit nesting behavior characterized by their preference for nesting sites in tree cavities near water. They often select natural or artificial nesting cavities for protection.
The Common Goldeneye’s diet primarily consists of aquatic invertebrates, including insects and crustaceans. They also consume small fish and plant material.
Conservation actions for Common Goldeneyes focus on maintaining suitable nesting habitats and ensuring the availability of food resources. Their role in aquatic ecosystems underscores the importance of wetland conservation.
20. 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
White-winged Scoters are sea ducks found in North America and Eurasia. Males display all-black plumage with distinctive white patches on their wings. Females have a dark brown appearance. Fun fact: White-winged Scoters are strong and fast flyers, capable of reaching speeds up to 80 km/h (50 mph) during migration.
White-winged Scoters exhibit nesting behavior that involves concealed nesting sites near coastal waters. They often nest on the ground, utilizing well-vegetated areas or dunes for protection.
The White-winged Scoter’s diet primarily consists of mollusks, crustaceans, and other aquatic invertebrates. They are proficient divers, diving to significant depths to find their prey.
Conservation efforts for White-winged Scoters focus on preserving coastal habitats and maintaining healthy populations of their prey species. Their reliance on nearshore environments underscores the importance of coastal ecosystem conservation.
21. 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
Surf Scoters are sea ducks native to North America. Males have a bold black body, white patches on the forehead and nape, and a bright orange bill. Females exhibit a more subdued brown plumage.
Fun fact: Surf Scoters are known for their unique feeding behavior called “bobbing,” where they dive briefly and pop back up to the water’s surface.
Surf Scoters exhibit nesting behavior characterized by concealed nesting sites near coastal waters. They often nest on the ground, utilizing well-vegetated areas or dunes for protection.
The Surf Scoter’s diet primarily consists of molluscs, crustaceans, and other aquatic invertebrates. They are skilled divers, capable of diving to considerable depths to obtain their prey.
Conservation efforts for Surf Scoters focus on preserving coastal habitats and maintaining healthy populations of their prey species. Their reliance on nearshore environments underscores the importance of coastal ecosystem conservation.
22. 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
Found in North America and Eurasia, the Harlequin Duck is a striking waterfowl with vibrant plumage. Males boast bold patterns resembling clown costumes, while females flaunt more subtle elegance.
Fun Fact: These agile divers navigate fast-flowing rivers with ease, even in turbulent waters.
Harlequin Ducks exhibit nesting behavior that involves concealed nesting sites near fast-flowing streams and rivers. They often nest among rocky crevices or in protected areas along the water’s edge.
The Harlequin Duck’s diet primarily consists of aquatic invertebrates, including insects and crustaceans. They are agile divers, capable of navigating fast-moving water to obtain their prey.
Conservation initiatives for Harlequin Ducks emphasize the protection of their riverine habitats and nesting areas. Their striking appearance and reliance on pristine stream environments make them a focus of conservation efforts.
23. Barrow’s Goldeneye
- Scientific name: Clangula hyemalis
- Life span: 12-15 years
- Size: 15-18 in / 38-46 cm
- Weight: 1.3-2.0 lbs / 600-900 g
- Wingspan: 24-30 in / 61-76 cm
- Status: Least Concern
Inhabiting North America and Iceland, Barrow’s Goldeneye showcases iridescent green-black plumage and a distinctive white oval patch on its face. This skilled diver nests in tree cavities near freshwater.
Fun Fact: The ducklings of this species take a daring leap from their nest to the ground, even while just a day old.
Barrow’s Goldeneyes exhibit nesting behavior that involves selecting concealed nesting sites in tree cavities near water. They often utilize natural or artificial nesting cavities for protection.
The Barrow’s Goldeneye’s diet primarily consists of aquatic invertebrates, including insects and crustaceans. They are proficient divers, capable of diving to significant depths to find their prey.
Conservation efforts for Barrow’s Goldeneyes focus on preserving suitable nesting habitats and maintaining healthy populations of their prey species. Their unique nesting habits and ecological role contribute to wetland conservation.
24. 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
King Eiders grace the Arctic seas of North America and Eurasia. With a regal presence, the males exhibit a vibrant mix of white, black, and pale blue on their bodies. Strikingly colourful bills set them apart.
Fun Fact: King Eiders are known for their unique vocalizations, creating a chorus of distinctive calls during the breeding season.
King Eiders exhibit nesting behavior that involves nesting in tundra habitats near coastal waters. They often nest among vegetation or rocky areas to provide protection for their eggs.
The King Eider’s diet primarily consists of molluscs, crustaceans, and other marine invertebrates. They dive to obtain their prey, often diving to considerable depths.
Conservation initiatives for King Eiders emphasize the protection of their Arctic breeding grounds and the preservation of marine habitats during migration. These efforts contribute to the conservation of this unique sea duck.
25. Eurasian Wigeon
- Scientific name: Mareca penelope
- Life span: 5-10 years
- Size: 18-22 in / 46-56 cm
- Weight: 1.0-1.5 lbs / 450-650 g
- Wingspan: 28-31 in / 71-79 cm
- Status: Least Concern
Spanning Europe, Asia, and North America, the Eurasian Wigeon is a dabbling duck with intricate markings. Males showcase a pale blue forewing, while females exhibit a warm chestnut head.
Fun Fact: Unlike many ducks, Wigeons are often seen grazing on land, enjoying a diet of grasses and vegetation.
Eurasian Wigeons exhibit nesting behavior characterized by concealed nesting sites near water bodies. They often nest in grassy areas, utilizing the vegetation for cover to protect their eggs and ducklings.
The Eurasian Wigeon’s diet primarily consists of aquatic plants, seeds, and small invertebrates. They are versatile feeders, capable of foraging both on land and in water.
Conservation efforts for Eurasian Wigeons focus on preserving wetland habitats and maintaining suitable areas for feeding and nesting. Their occasional presence in Maine underscores the importance of wetland conservation for migratory species.
27. 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
Native to North America, Europe, and Asia, the Common Merganser is an elegant fish-eating bird. Males boast a stunning contrast of black and white with a striking green head. Females flaunt a more subdued rusty-chestnut crest.
Fun Fact: These divers often form creches, where multiple broods combine, watched over by a few adults.
Common Mergansers exhibit nesting behavior that involves selecting concealed nesting sites in tree cavities near water. They often choose natural or artificial nesting cavities for protection.
The Common Merganser’s diet primarily consists of fish, aquatic insects, and crustaceans. They are proficient divers, using their streamlined bodies to navigate underwater for food.
Conservation actions for Common Mergansers focus on maintaining suitable nesting habitats and preserving healthy fish populations. Their role as a top predator in aquatic ecosystems underscores the importance of balanced food webs.
28. 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
Roaming across the Northern Hemisphere, the Common Eider is a large sea duck. Males exhibit a distinctive white plumage with a hint of green on their heads. Females are well-camouflaged with mottled brown patterns. Fun Fact: Eiderdown, the softest down feathers of the female, is harvested for insulation and is highly valued in making luxury bedding.
Common Eiders exhibit nesting behavior that involves nesting in sheltered areas near coastal waters. They often select rocky habitats or concealed sites among vegetation for protection.
The Common Eider’s diet primarily consists of molluscs, crustaceans, and other marine invertebrates. They dive to obtain their prey, often diving to considerable depths.
Conservation initiatives for Common Eiders emphasize the protection of coastal habitats, including nesting and foraging areas. Their economic and ecological significance underscores the importance of their conservation.
Where to find Ducks in Maine
To observe ducks in Maine, head to wetland habitats, lakeshores, and coastal areas. Bring binoculars and a field guide to identify different species.
Four prime locations include:
- Scarborough Marsh, where expansive salt marshes attract various ducks;
- Acadia National Park’s ponds, home to Mallards and Wood Ducks;
- Sebasticook Lake, a hotspot for diving ducks such as Common Goldeneyes and Buffleheads;
- Sabattus Pond, offering a chance to spot Ring-necked Ducks and American Black Ducks.
Stay quiet, respect their space, and visit during migration seasons for optimal viewing. Patience and keen observation will reward you with a delightful duck-watching experience in Maine’s diverse ecosystems.
Conclusion
In Maine’s diverse landscapes, ducks play a vital role in the intricate tapestry of wetlands, lakes, and coastal waters. Their nesting behaviors, dietary habits, and conservation stories underscore the need to preserve and protect these habitats.
Through mindful observation and conservation efforts, we can ensure the continued presence of these remarkable waterfowl for generations to come.
