Massachusetts, with its rich habitats ranging from coastal shores to inland ponds, is a prime location for observing a wide array of duck species. This article explores the vibrant duck population in the state, detailing the behavior, nesting strategies, and conservation status of these waterfowl.
From the commonly seen Mallard to the rarer Barrow’s Goldeneye, each species adds a unique brushstroke to the state’s ecological canvas. Understanding these ducks is not only crucial for bird enthusiasts but also for maintaining ecological balance in Massachusetts’ diverse ecosystems.
Many of these ducks are found around of the world, and I’ve got a poster next to me in my office with Danish ducks, where a lot of the species on this list are found!
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 Mallard, a familiar sight in water bodies across North America, Europe, and Asia, boasts a striking plumage. Males flaunt a glossy green head, contrasted by a white neck ring and chestnut-brown chest. Females wear mottled brown, ensuring camouflage. Both sexes have a distinctive blue-purple wing patch, adding a splash of color.
Mallards in Massachusetts create a cozy home among the reeds and grasses near water bodies. The female meticulously builds the nest, using her own feathers for lining, creating a snug haven for her eggs.
These ducks are true omnivores. Strolling along the water’s edge, they’ll dabble for aquatic plants, snap up insects, and occasionally treat themselves to small fish, embodying the essence of opportunistic feeders.
Mallards are a conservation success story. Thriving in Massachusetts, their adaptability to human-altered environments has ensured their abundance, though they remain a focus of wetland conservation efforts to preserve their natural habitats.
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
Elegant and slender, the Northern Pintail graces many regions, from North America to Eurasia. Males have a chocolate-brown head, white neck, and a grayish body, while females are mottled brown. Both sexes feature a long, pointed tail, which is especially prominent in males.
The Northern Pintail in Massachusetts prefers isolated and concealed nesting sites, often far from water. The female’s dedication to her nest, built with grass and lined with down, is a testament to maternal instinct.
These elegant ducks are dabblers, gracefully foraging for seeds, aquatic plants, and invertebrates. Their diet mirrors the seasonal abundance of Massachusetts’s wetlands.
Facing habitat degradation, Northern Pintails have become a focus of conservationists in Massachusetts. Efforts are geared towards wetland restoration, ensuring these graceful birds continue to grace the skies.
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: Migratory and less common
Widely distributed across North America, Europe, and Asia, the Northern Shoveler is known for its oversized, spatula-shaped bill. Males have a striking green head, white chest, and chestnut sides, while females are mottled brown, both with a noticeable large bill.
Northern Shovelers prefer concealed nesting spots in dense vegetation. The female’s nest, a marvel of camouflage, is a testament to her instinct to protect her brood.
Known for their unique bill, Northern Shovelers sift through mud for seeds, aquatic plants, and small invertebrates. Their foraging is a dance with the dynamic wetlands of Massachusetts.
Conservation efforts for Northern Shovelers in Massachusetts are focused on wetland preservation. Their population is stable, but continued vigilance is needed to maintain their habitat.
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
Found in lakes and rivers across North America, the Lesser Scaup is a small diving duck. Males have a black head with iridescent purple hues, a black chest, and light gray sides. Females are brown with a white patch near the bill.
Lesser Scaups favor hidden nesting sites near water. The female meticulously crafts her nest, ensuring a safe haven for her future brood.
Diving for food, they feast on aquatic invertebrates and plants, showcasing their adaptability to the diverse aquatic environments of Massachusetts.
Conservation efforts for Lesser Scaups focus on protecting their aquatic habitats. In Massachusetts, preserving these environments is vital for their survival and flourishing.
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: Migratory and common
A bird of North American marshes and ponds, the American Wigeon is a medium-sized duck. Males have a unique cream-colored forehead and green eye stripe, contrasting with a gray body. Females are mottled brown, with a pale belly and a distinctive smudgy face.
American Wigeons nest on the ground in grassy areas near water. The female diligently creates a nest lined with down, a cozy cradle for her future brood.
These ducks are avid grazers, feeding on grasses and aquatic plants. Their diet also includes invertebrates, reflecting the diverse ecosystems of Massachusetts.
The American Wigeon benefits from ongoing conservation efforts aimed at preserving wetlands and grasslands in Massachusetts, ensuring these charming ducks continue to thrive.
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 common
Residing in wooded swamps across North America, the Wood Duck is a spectacle of color. Males display iridescent green and purple heads with striking white patterns, while their bodies are a mix of rich colours. Females are more subdued, with gray-brown plumage and distinctive white eye-rings.
Unique among their peers, Wood Ducks in Massachusetts nest in tree cavities near water bodies, hence their super creative name. The female carefully selects the site, creating a safe, elevated haven for her eggs.
These colourful ducks have a varied diet, feeding on nuts, seeds, insects, and aquatic plants. Their foraging habits reflect the biodiversity of Massachusetts’s freshwater habitats.
Once threatened by habitat loss, Wood Ducks have rebounded thanks to conservation efforts in Massachusetts, including the provision of nesting boxes, which have become crucial to their nesting success.
7. 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: Migratory and common
Found in the Arctic and North Atlantic, the Long-tailed Duck is notable for its elongated tail feathers. Males have a complex plumage of white, black, and brown, changing with the seasons. Females are more subdued, with mottled brown and white.
The Long-tailed Duck, with its distinctive plumage, opts for the quiet solitude of coastal marshlands for nesting. Their nests are often a simple yet elegant arrangement of grasses and feathers, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
Adept in diving, the Long-tailed Duck’s diet consists of fish, crustaceans, and mollusks found in the chilly waters of Massachusetts. Their foraging is a testament to their adaptability, thriving in both freshwater and marine environments.
The Long-tailed Duck’s conservation story in Massachusetts is a tale of resilience. Efforts to preserve their habitats and ensure clean, pollutant-free waterways are ongoing, highlighting the importance of environmental stewardship for these captivating birds.
8. 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
Found throughout North and South America, the Blue-winged Teal is easily recognized by its namesake: a bold blue patch on the forewing. Males exhibit a white facial crescent and speckled brown body, while females are uniformly mottled brown, blending well with their surroundings.
Blue-winged Teals prefer nesting in dense grasslands or wetlands. The female’s nest, a masterpiece of grass and down, is a testament to her dedication to her future offspring.
Primarily herbivorous, these ducks feast on a variety of seeds and plants. They also indulge in insects and crustaceans, reflecting the rich ecosystem of Massachusetts’s wetlands.
Conservation efforts for Blue-winged Teals revolve around protecting wetland habitats. While they are not currently endangered, maintaining healthy wetlands is essential for their continued prosperity in Massachusetts.
9. Gadwall
- Scientific name: Mareca strepera
- Life span: 5-10 years
- Size: 46-56 cm (18-22 in)
- Weight: 700-1200 g (1.5-2.6 lb)
- Wingspan: 81-95 cm (32-37 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and less common
Inhabiting lakes and marshes across North America, Europe, and Asia, the Gadwall presents a subtle elegance. Males have a refined gray-brown body with a black rear, while females are mottled brown. Both feature a distinctive white wing patch, visible in flight.
In Massachusetts, Gadwalls nest on the ground, hidden in dense vegetation near water. The female’s nest, a simple yet effective structure, ensures a safe place for her eggs.
Gadwalls in Massachusetts are predominantly herbivorous, foraging for aquatic vegetation. However, they also supplement their diet with aquatic invertebrates, showcasing their adaptability.
Conservation of Gadwalls in Massachusetts focuses on preserving freshwater habitats. While not endangered, their dependence on wetlands makes habitat conservation crucial for their continued presence in the region.
10. 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
A small dabbling duck, the Green-winged Teal frequents marshes and ponds in North America and Eurasia. Males are known for their chestnut head with a broad green eye patch, and speckled gray body, while females are mottled brown. A striking green patch on the wing defines the species.
Green-winged Teals are discreet nesters, often choosing dense vegetation. The female weaves a hidden nest, blending seamlessly with her surroundings, a natural marvel of camouflage.
These small ducks forage in shallow waters, sifting through mud and plants. They feast on seeds, aquatic invertebrates, and the occasional small fish, showcasing their diverse palate.
Conservation for Green-winged Teals in Massachusetts is focused on maintaining wetland habitats. Their populations are stable, but preserving these crucial habitats is key to their continued success.
11. 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: Migratory and less common
This small sea duck, found in the cold waters of the North Pacific and Atlantic, is a visual treat. Males are a mosaic of blue, red, and white, with striking patterns, while females are a more subdued gray-brown with white patches.
The Harlequin Duck prefers the solitary serenity of rushing streams for nesting. These ducks artfully select crevices in rocks or under overhanging vegetation near water, crafting a hidden haven for their precious eggs. The tranquillity and constant murmur of flowing water provide a serene backdrop for the nurturing of their young.
Its diet primarily consists of aquatic invertebrates, like insects, mollusks, and crustaceans. Diving into the water’s depths, it displays an extraordinary ability to navigate strong currents, transforming the challenge of survival into an elegant dance.
The Harlequin Duck has been a focus of conservation efforts due to habitat disturbances and declining populations. In Massachusetts, initiatives to preserve river habitats are vital, ensuring these ducks have safe nesting grounds and abundant food sources.
12. 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
- State status: Breeding and common
Native to eastern North America, the American Black Duck is a subtle beauty. Males and females alike share a uniformly dark brown body, which can appear black in certain light. Their distinct feature is the iridescent violet-blue wing patch bordered by white, visible in flight.
In the marshes of Massachusetts, American Black Ducks display a secretive nesting tactic. The female deftly hides her nest among dense vegetation, ensuring a hidden refuge for her precious eggs.
These ducks are like the foragers of the bird world, skimming the surface for plant material, invertebrates, and small fish. Their diet reflects the richness of Massachusetts’s wetlands.
Once prevalent, the American Black Duck has faced challenges due to habitat loss and competition with Mallards. Conservation efforts in Massachusetts focus on preserving wetland habitats, crucial for their survival.
13. 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: Migratory and common
Inhabiting North American and Eurasian coastal waters, the White-winged Scoter is recognized by the white wing patch in both sexes. Males are mostly black with white eyes, while females are dark brown, both having a unique shape and profile.
The White-winged Scoter, a robust and hearty diver, chooses the quietude of dense vegetation near water for nesting. In these hidden, verdant cradles, they lay their eggs, often concealed by a canopy of leaves, providing a natural shield against predators.
This bird’s diet is a medley of marine delicacies, including fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. In Massachusetts’ waters, they dive with precision, showcasing their natural prowess in harvesting the ocean’s bounty, a dance of survival and skill.
The White-winged Scoter’s conservation narrative in Massachusetts includes habitat protection and pollution reduction. Their well-being is indicative of the health of coastal ecosystems, making their conservation a priority for environmentalists.
14. Barrow’s Goldeneye
- Scientific name: Bucephala islandica
- 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
- State status: Migratory and rare
A relative of the Common Goldeneye, the Barrow’s Goldeneye is found in North America and Greenland. Males have a black head with a crescent-shaped white patch and a white body. Females are similar to the Common Goldeneye but have a different head shape.
Barrow’s Goldeneye, lesser-known but equally majestic, selects secluded tree cavities near water for their nests. These hidden, elevated homes, often in old-growth forests, provide a tranquil and safe environment for raising their young.
In the waters of Massachusetts, Barrow’s Goldeneye dives for fish, mollusks, and crustaceans. Their foraging skills, both in freshwater and coastal environments, demonstrate an impressive versatility and mastery of their aquatic realm.
Conservation initiatives for Barrow’s Goldeneye focus on protecting old-growth forests and clean waterways. These efforts in Massachusetts are crucial for providing suitable nesting sites and healthy feeding grounds for these elegant ducks.
15. 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: Migratory and rare
Breeding in the Arctic regions, the King Eider is a large sea duck known for its ornate plumage. Males have a black body, white breast, and a colourful head with blue, green, and orange hues. Females are mottled brown with a characteristic pale face.
King Eiders choose isolated coastal areas for nesting. The female’s nest, often a simple depression in the ground, is a stark contrast to the complexity of their parenting.
Their diet primarily consists of mollusks and crustaceans, showcasing their specialization in exploiting the rich marine resources of Massachusetts.
The conservation of King Eiders involves protecting their unique coastal habitats. These efforts in Massachusetts are vital for ensuring the survival of this magnificent sea duck.
16. 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: Migratory and common
The Black Scoter, another sea duck, frequents the coasts of North America and Europe. Males are entirely black with a distinctive yellow knob at the base of the bill. Females are a more muted dark brown, with a less pronounced bill feature.
Black Scoters, elusive and solitary, favor the secluded nooks of freshwater lakes for nesting. They artfully craft their nests, often on small islands or hidden among reeds, ensuring a peaceful and safe environment for their offspring.
Preferring a diet rich in aquatic invertebrates, the Black Scoter is a skilled forager in Massachusetts’ lakes and coastal areas. Its ability to dive and hunt beneath the water’s surface is a mesmerizing display of agility and precision.
In Massachusetts, the conservation of Black Scoters involves safeguarding their breeding and feeding habitats. Efforts are focused on maintaining clean waterways and protecting coastal areas from development and pollution, crucial for the survival of these magnificent birds.
17. 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 common
The Surf Scoter, a bulky sea duck, is found along the coasts of North America and northeastern Asia. Males are predominantly black with distinctive white patches on their head and a colourful bill. Females are a plainer dark brown with a less colourful bill.
Surf Scoters, often seen bobbing on the ocean waves, prefer secluded, forested areas near water bodies for nesting. They build nests on the ground, often in dense vegetation, creating a hidden sanctuary.
Surf Scoters have a diverse palate, feasting primarily on mollusks and crustaceans found in Massachusetts’ coastal waters. Their foraging technique is a marvel, diving deep and using their specialized bills to extract prey from the sandy ocean floor, a testament to their adaptability and resilience.
Surf Scoters face challenges from oil spills and habitat loss. In Massachusetts, conservationists work tirelessly to monitor their populations and protect their coastal habitats. Efforts include pollution control and advocating for responsible coastal development, ensuring these enigmatic birds continue to grace the shores.
18. 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’s most noticeable feature isn’t its neck ring but its bold white ring around the bill. Inhabiting freshwater lakes across North America, males have a glossy black head and back with gray sides, while females are brown with a white eye-ring.
Ring-necked Ducks nest near water, with the female selecting a concealed spot. Her nest, a blend of vegetation and down, is a cozy sanctuary for her eggs.
These ducks are divers, plunging into the depths for aquatic plants and invertebrates. Their foraging habits are a testament to the rich underwater world of Massachusetts.
Conservation for Ring-necked Ducks in Massachusetts revolves around safeguarding freshwater habitats. These efforts are key to maintaining the population of this strikingly marked duck.
19. 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 uncommon
The Redhead, populating North American marshes and ponds, is a medium-sized duck. Males are named for their striking reddish head and neck, set against a black chest and gray body. Females are a uniform brown with a slightly lighter head.
Redheads are known for their secretive nesting, often hidden among tall reeds. The female’s nest, a careful assembly of reeds and grasses, showcases her commitment to her offspring.
These ducks forage for aquatic plants and invertebrates. Their diet mirrors the bountiful offerings of Massachusetts’s wetlands.
Conservation of Redheads focuses on wetland preservation. In Massachusetts, these efforts are crucial for maintaining the delicate balance of their habitat, ensuring the continuation of this vibrant species.
20. 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
This small diving duck inhabits lakes and rivers across North America. Males are striking with a large white patch on a glossy black head, and a black and white body. Females are more understated, with a dark brown body and a smaller white cheek patch.
Buffleheads have a fondness for nesting in tree cavities, often near water bodies. These natural or abandoned woodpecker holes provide a safe and cozy haven for their eggs, showcasing their adaptability in utilizing available resources.
With a diet rich in insects, crustaceans, and plant material, Buffleheads are versatile foragers in Massachusetts’ aquatic environments. Their diving technique, swift and precise, is a delightful display of their ability to thrive in diverse habitats.
Conservation efforts for Buffleheads in Massachusetts focus on preserving wetland habitats and ensuring the availability of nesting sites. By protecting these critical environments, conservationists hope to maintain the delicate balance necessary for the survival of these charming ducks.
21. 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
Found in North American lakes and rivers, the Canvasback is a large diving duck. Males have a distinctive wedge-shaped head, red eyes, and a black chest contrasting with a white back. Females are a muted brown with a paler head and neck.
Canvasbacks choose secluded wetland areas for nesting. The female constructs her nest from plant material, creating a floating fortress amidst the marshes.
These diving ducks delve deep for aquatic plants and invertebrates. Their diet is a testament to the richness of Massachusetts’s underwater ecosystems.
Conservation efforts for Canvasbacks are centred on protecting and restoring wetland habitats. While they face challenges, these efforts in Massachusetts are crucial for ensuring their continued presence.
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: Migratory and common
Inhabiting northern regions of North America, Europe, and Asia, the Greater Scaup is similar to the Lesser Scaup but larger. Males display a glossy greenish-black head and white sides, while females are brown with a distinctive white patch at the base of the bill.
Greater Scaups choose secluded nesting areas near water. The female’s dedication to her nest, a carefully constructed haven, is a testament to her maternal instinct.
These ducks dive for aquatic plants and invertebrates, reflecting the rich and varied aquatic ecosystems of Massachusetts.
The conservation of Greater Scaups in Massachusetts involves protecting their wetland habitats. While their populations are stable, these efforts are essential for their continued presence in the state.
23. Hooded Merganser
- Scientific name: Lophodytes cucullatus
- Life span: 6-10 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 common
Inhabiting wooded ponds across North America, the Hooded Merganser is distinctive for its fan-shaped crest. Males have a striking black and white crest, with a black back and brown sides. Females are mottled brown with a smaller crest.
The Hooded Merganser shows a preference for tree cavities near water for nesting. These cozy, hidden chambers, often in dead or decaying trees, provide a unique and secure nursery for their ducklings.
A diverse diet of fish, insects, and crustaceans makes the Hooded Merganser a skilled and adaptable hunter in Massachusetts’ water bodies. Their underwater hunting technique, swift and agile, is a captivating display of their predatory prowess.
In Massachusetts, the conservation of Hooded Mergansers involves protecting their nesting and feeding habitats, particularly wooded wetlands. Efforts to maintain these vital ecosystems are essential for the continued presence of these strikingly crested birds.
24. 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 common
This diving duck is found in coastal waters and lakes across the Northern Hemisphere. Males have a dark green head, rusty breast, and white neck ring. Females are gray with a rusty head, both sporting a distinctive shaggy crest.
Red-breasted Mergansers choose secluded areas near water for their nests. These nests, often hidden among reeds or under bushes, offer a private and secure haven for their eggs, nestled away from the prying eyes of predators.
Feeding mainly on small fish and aquatic invertebrates, Red-breasted Mergansers are expert divers in the waters of Massachusetts. Their ability to plunge and pursue prey underwater is a remarkable display of agility and adaptation.
In Massachusetts, the conservation of Red-breasted Mergansers involves protecting coastal and freshwater habitats. Efforts to ensure clean and undisturbed nesting and feeding areas are key to the survival and prosperity of these vibrant birds.
25. 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
The Common Eider, a large sea duck, is found in the northern coasts of Europe, North America, and eastern Siberia. Males are striking with black and white plumage and a green nape, while females are camouflaged in brown and black mottling.
Common Eiders in Massachusetts prefer coastal areas for nesting. Females band together in communal nesting sites, creating a sense of community and shared vigilance.
These sea ducks dive for shellfish and crustaceans, their diet reflecting the abundance of Massachusetts’s coastal waters.
Conservation efforts for Common Eiders focus on protecting their coastal nesting areas. In Massachusetts, safeguarding these habitats is crucial for the survival and prosperity of this distinctive sea duck.
26. 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 common
Widespread in the lakes and rivers of North America and Eurasia, the Common Goldeneye is known for its bright yellow eye. Males have a glossy green-black head and white body, while females are gray with a brown head.
Common Goldeneyes prefer nesting in tree cavities near water bodies. These natural abodes, often high off the ground, provide a secure and elevated sanctuary for their young, symbolizing a harmonious balance with nature.
Feasting primarily on fish, insects, and aquatic plants, the Common Goldeneye is a proficient diver and forager in Massachusetts’ lakes and rivers. Their ability to adapt to different feeding environments reflects their resilience and resourcefulness.
The conservation of Common Goldeneyes in Massachusetts involves habitat preservation and monitoring of water quality. These efforts aim to maintain the pristine nature of their habitats, ensuring a sustainable future for these visually striking birds.
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
- State status: Breeding and common
Common in rivers and lakes of North America and Eurasia, the Common Merganser has a sleek profile. Males are predominantly white with a dark green head, while females have a rusty head and a gray body, both with a long, thin bill.
Common Mergansers favor tree cavities or nest boxes near rivers and lakes for their nesting sites. These secluded spots, often hidden among the foliage, offer a serene and safe environment for their offspring.
With a diet predominantly comprising fish, the Common Merganser is an exceptional diver and fisher in Massachusetts’ waterways. Their graceful hunting style, merging strength and precision, is a testament to their role as adept aquatic predators.
The conservation story of Common Mergansers in Massachusetts is one of habitat preservation and water quality improvement. Protecting these areas ensures these magnificent birds have access to clean feeding grounds and secure nesting sites.
Where to find Ducks in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, duck watching can be a rewarding experience in various habitats like coastal areas, rivers, and inland ponds. To find ducks, visit during migration seasons (spring and fall) for diversity, or in winter along the coast for sea ducks.
Key locations include the Plum Island-Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Cape Cod National Seashore, Quabbin Reservoir, and the Charles River. Binoculars and a field guide enhance the experience, and early morning is often the best time for sightings. Remember to respect wildlife and keep a safe distance.
Conclusion
Exploring Massachusetts’ diverse landscapes reveals a world of ducks, each species offering a unique glimpse into the state’s natural heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or a curious nature lover, Massachusetts’ waterways and coasts provide an unparalleled opportunity to connect with these fascinating and varied waterfowl.
