It’s hard to convey what a fantastic place Minnesota is for duck-watching. It boasts an extremely rich diversity of waterfowl that grace its numerous lakes, rivers, and wetlands. From the vibrant plumage of the Wood Duck to the striking patterns of the Northern Pintail, the state’s waters are alive with activity. As the seasons change, so does the avian cast, with migratory species joining the resident flocks.
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or a casual nature lover, exploring Minnesota’s duck population offers a glimpse into the beauty and variety of the state’s natural heritage. Dive into the enchanting world of Minnesota’s ducks and discover their unique stories and behaviors.
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, found across North America, Europe, and Asia, is a vibrant duck with a glossy green head, a white neck ring, and chestnut-brown chest. Its females are mottled brown, blending well into wetland habitats.
Mallards build their nests on the ground, often concealed in tall grass or reeds. They use down feathers to line their nests, ensuring warmth.
Mallards have a varied diet, feeding on aquatic plants, insects, and small fish. They also forage on land, consuming grains and seeds from fields.
Mallards are widely protected through wetland conservation programs. Their population remains stable due to effective management and restoration of 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 lbs)
- Wingspan: 80-95 cm (31-38 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and common
The Northern Pintail is a sleek, elegant duck with a long, pointed tail. Males have a chocolate-brown head and white neck, while females are mottled brown. They are widespread across North America, Europe, and Asia, favouring open wetlands.
Northern Pintails nest in open areas near water, often in shallow depressions lined with grass. They prefer habitats with sparse vegetation to detect approaching predators.
Their diet includes aquatic plants, seeds, and small invertebrates. They forage by dabbling in shallow water, often tipping forward to reach underwater vegetation.
Conservation efforts focus on preserving wetland habitats and managing water levels. Northern Pintail populations have fluctuated, but continued efforts aim to ensure their long-term survival.
3. 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 rare
Long-tailed Ducks are aptly named for the male’s long, slender tail feathers. Males are white with black markings, while females are brown and grey. They breed in the Arctic and winter along northern coastlines.
Long-tailed Ducks nest in tundra regions near freshwater lakes and ponds. The female builds a nest on the ground, using moss, grass, and down, often concealed in low vegetation. She lays 6-9 eggs and incubates them for about 24-30 days, with the male typically leaving after incubation starts.
These diving ducks feed primarily on small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. They forage by diving and swimming underwater, using their nimble bodies to catch prey. Long-tailed Ducks are highly adapted to marine environments, allowing them to thrive on their coastal diet during winter.
Conservation efforts for Long-tailed Ducks focus on protecting their breeding and wintering habitats. Their populations are relatively stable, but they face threats from oil spills, overfishing, and habitat disturbance. Continued monitoring and habitat protection are essential to ensure their long-term survival.
4. Northern Shoveler
- Scientific name: Spatula clypeata
- Life span: 10-15 years
- Size: 43-53 cm (17-21 in)
- Weight: 400-1100 g (0.88-2.4 lb)
- Wingspan: 74-86 cm (29-34 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
The Northern Shoveler is known for its distinctive spatula-shaped bill. Males have a green head, white chest, and chestnut sides. They inhabit wetlands across North America, Europe, and Asia. Females are mottled brown with a blue wing patch.
Northern Shovelers nest in shallow depressions on the ground, often hidden by tall grasses or reeds. The female lines the nest with down feathers and lays about 8-12 eggs. She alone incubates them for around 22-24 days, while the male stays nearby to protect the territory.
These ducks have a distinctive, large spatula-shaped bill, perfect for sifting small aquatic invertebrates and seeds from the water. They forage by skimming the surface or dabbling in shallow waters, taking advantage of their unique bill to filter out their food efficiently.
Northern Shoveler populations are generally stable, though they face threats from habitat loss and water pollution. Conservation efforts include protecting and restoring wetlands, as well as monitoring water quality. They are a focus in many conservation plans due to their reliance on healthy aquatic ecosystems.
5. 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 rare
Harlequin Ducks are small, striking sea ducks with males featuring bold patterns of blue, white, and chestnut. Females are brown with white spots near the eyes, they also have a distinctive white facial patch. They inhabit fast-flowing streams and rocky coastlines in North America and Greenland.
Harlequin Ducks nest along fast-flowing rivers and streams, often in mountainous regions. The female builds a nest in a sheltered spot, such as under a rock or in dense vegetation. She lays 5-8 eggs and incubates them for about 27-30 days, while the male typically leaves after incubation begins.
These small, striking ducks feed mainly on aquatic invertebrates, such as insects, crustaceans, and mollusks. They forage by diving and swimming underwater, using their agility to navigate swift currents and rocky streambeds. Their diet shifts seasonally, depending on prey availability.
Harlequin Ducks are subject to various conservation efforts, focusing on preserving their riverine and coastal habitats. Their populations are relatively stable but face threats from habitat disturbance and water pollution. Protecting their nesting and foraging habitats is essential for their continued survival.
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
American Wigeons are recognizable by the male’s white forehead and green eye patch. Females are brownish-grey with a pale bill. They are found across North America, frequenting marshes, lakes, and ponds.
American Wigeons nest on dry land, often in fields or grasslands near water. The female builds a nest from grasses and down, hidden in dense vegetation. She lays 7-10 eggs and incubates them for about 23-25 days, while the male remains nearby during this period.
These dabbling ducks primarily feed on aquatic plants, grasses, and algae. They often graze in fields and wetlands, pulling vegetation from the water or ground. During the breeding season, they may also eat insects and other small invertebrates to meet their increased nutritional needs.
American Wigeons benefit from wetland conservation and habitat restoration efforts. Their populations are generally stable, but continued protection of breeding and wintering habitats is crucial. Conservation programs often focus on maintaining healthy wetland ecosystems to support their diverse dietary needs.
7. 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 are known for their stunning iridescent plumage. Males showcase a crested head with green, purple, and white markings, while females are brownish-grey with a distinctive white eye-ring. They inhabit wooded swamps and ponds across North America.
Wood Ducks nest in tree cavities near water bodies. They sometimes use man-made nest boxes, which have helped increase their populations significantly.
Wood Ducks primarily feed on aquatic plants, seeds, and small invertebrates. They also eat acorns and fruits, especially in the fall and winter months.
Conservation efforts for Wood Ducks include nest box programs and habitat protection. These measures have successfully revived their numbers after significant declines in the past.
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: Breeding and common
Blue-winged Teals are distinguished by their blue wing patches and white facial crescent in males. Found across North America, they favor shallow wetlands. Females are mottled brown, blending seamlessly into their surroundings.
Blue-winged Teals nest in tall grass near wetlands. They create shallow nests on the ground, well-hidden by surrounding vegetation to protect their eggs.
Their diet includes seeds, aquatic plants, and insects. Blue-winged Teals forage in shallow waters, often seen dabbling or skimming the surface for food.
Conservation programs focus on preserving wetland habitats and protecting breeding areas. These efforts have helped maintain stable populations of Blue-winged Teals.
9. White-winged Scoter
- Scientific name: Melanitta fusca
- Life span: 10-15 years
- Size: 48-58 cm (19-23 in)
- Weight: 900-2,000 g (2-6.2 lb)
- Wingspan: 81-97 cm (32-38 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
White-winged Scoters are large sea ducks with males displaying a black body and white wing patches. Females are brown with lighter wing patches. They are found in northern coastal waters and large freshwater lakes.
White-winged Scoters nest in boreal forests and tundra regions near freshwater lakes and rivers. The female builds a nest on the ground, using grasses and down, often hidden in dense vegetation. She lays 5-9 eggs and incubates them for about 27-31 days, with the male often leaving after incubation starts.
These large sea ducks feed primarily on mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish. They forage by diving and using their strong bills to capture prey. White-winged Scoters are well adapted to marine environments, allowing them to thrive on their coastal diet during the winter.
Conservation efforts for White-winged Scoters focus on protecting breeding and wintering habitats. Their populations are stable, but they face threats from oil spills, overfishing, and habitat disturbance. Monitoring programs and habitat protection are crucial to ensure their continued survival and health.
10. Gadwall
- Scientific name: Mareca strepera
- Life span: 5-10 years
- Size: 46-56 cm (18-22 in)
- Weight: 800-1,350 g (1.8-3.0 lb)
- Wingspan: 81-95 cm (32-37 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Gadwalls are understated ducks with males having a gray-brown body and black rump. Females are mottled brown. They are found in wetlands across North America, Europe, and Asia, often seen dabbling in shallow waters.
Gadwalls prefer nesting in dense grasslands or wetlands, often far from water. The female builds a well-hidden nest in thick vegetation, using grasses and down. She lays about 9-13 eggs, which she incubates for approximately 24-27 days, while the male stays close but does not help incubate.
Gadwalls mainly feed on aquatic vegetation, such as pondweeds and algae. They also consume seeds and small invertebrates. They forage by dabbling on the water’s surface and sometimes diving for submerged plants. Their diet shifts more towards invertebrates during the breeding season.
Conservation efforts for Gadwalls focus on wetland preservation and management. They benefit from programs aimed at protecting waterfowl habitats. Gadwall populations have generally been increasing, thanks to effective conservation measures and the protection of breeding and wintering grounds.
11. 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: Migratory and rare
Common Eiders are large sea ducks with males displaying a striking black-and-white pattern and green nape. Females are brown and mottled, blending into rocky coastlines. They are found along the northern coasts of North America and Eurasia.
Common Eiders nest in coastal areas, often on rocky islands or inshore cliffs. The female builds a nest from grass, seaweed, and down feathers, usually in a sheltered spot. She lays 4-6 eggs and incubates them for about 24-26 days, while the male often remains nearby.
These large sea ducks primarily feed on mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish. They forage by diving and using their strong bills to pry open shells or capture prey. Common Eiders are well adapted to marine environments, allowing them to thrive on their coastal diet.
Conservation efforts for Common Eiders focus on protecting breeding colonies and coastal habitats. Their populations are stable but face threats from oil spills, overfishing, and habitat disturbance. Continued monitoring and habitat protection are essential to ensure the long-term survival of these sea ducks.
12. Green-winged Teal
- Scientific name: Anas crecca
- Life span: 5-10 years
- Size: 33-38 cm (13-15 in)
- Weight: 150-400 g (5.3-14.1 oz)
- Wingspan: 53-59 cm (21-23 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Green-winged Teals are small, colourful ducks with males exhibiting a chestnut head and green eye patch. They are common across North America and prefer shallow ponds and marshes. Females are mottled brown with subtle markings.
Green-winged Teals nest in dense vegetation near water. Their nests are shallow scrapes on the ground, lined with down and concealed by grass or reeds.
These small ducks feed on seeds, aquatic plants, and invertebrates. They forage in shallow water, often seen dabbling or tipping forward to reach food.
Green-winged Teals benefit from wetland conservation and habitat restoration projects. Their populations are generally stable, supported by effective management practices.
13. 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
King Eiders are colourful sea ducks with males showcasing a blue-grey crown, orange bill, and black-and-white body. Females are mottled brown, perfect for nesting on Arctic coasts. They are found in northern coastal regions of North America and Eurasia.
King Eiders nest in the Arctic tundra, often near coastal areas or freshwater lakes. The female builds a nest on the ground, using moss, grass, and down. She lays 4-7 eggs and incubates them for about 22-24 days. The male typically leaves after the eggs are laid.
These sea ducks primarily feed on mollusks, crustaceans, and marine invertebrates. They forage by diving and using their strong bills to capture prey. During the breeding season, they may also consume more freshwater invertebrates to support their increased nutritional needs.
Conservation efforts for King Eiders focus on protecting their Arctic breeding habitats and coastal wintering grounds. Their populations are stable but face potential threats from climate change and habitat degradation. Ongoing research and monitoring are crucial to understanding their ecology and ensuring effective conservation strategies.
14. 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: Migratory and rare
American Black Ducks are predominantly found in the eastern United States and Canada. They have dark brown bodies with lighter head and neck feathers, and their vivid purple wing patches are striking in flight.
American Black Ducks nest in a variety of habitats, including marshes, bogs, and forested wetlands. They prefer dense cover to conceal their nests from predators.
Their diet consists of aquatic plants, seeds, and invertebrates. During migration, they also forage in agricultural fields for grains and small insects.
American Black Ducks face habitat loss but benefit from ongoing conservation efforts. Restoration of wetlands and controlled hunting practices have aided in stabilizing their populations.
15. 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: Breeding and common
Ring-necked Ducks are medium-sized diving ducks with a distinctive ring around the male’s neck, often hard to see. Males have a black back, grey sides, and white ring on the bill. Females are brown with a similar white ring on the bill.
Ring-necked Ducks nest in dense vegetation near water, often in wetlands. The female builds a nest from grasses and down, usually over water or in wet areas. She lays 8-10 eggs and incubates them for about 25-29 days, with the male staying nearby but not helping incubate.
These ducks primarily feed on aquatic plants, seeds, and invertebrates. They forage by diving and dabbling, often feeding on the bottom of shallow waters. During the breeding season, they consume more animal matter, such as insects and mollusks, to meet their increased energy needs.
Conservation efforts for Ring-necked Ducks focus on wetland preservation and habitat management. Their populations are generally stable, but habitat loss and water pollution are ongoing threats. Protecting and restoring wetlands is crucial to maintain healthy populations of this species.
16. Redhead
- Scientific name: Aythya americana
- Life span: 10-15 years
- Size: 42-49 cm (17-19 in)
- Weight: 850-1,600 g (1.9-3.5 lb)
- Wingspan: 76-84 cm (30-33 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Redheads are named for the male’s striking red head and black chest, with a grey body. They are found in North America, particularly in prairie potholes and marshes. Females are uniformly brown with subtle markings.
Redheads nest in marshes and wetlands, often over water. The female constructs a nest from reeds and cattails, anchored to vegetation. She lays 7-10 eggs and incubates them for about 23-29 days. Males stay close by during incubation but do not assist in the process.
Redheads are primarily herbivorous, feeding on aquatic plants and seeds. They also consume small invertebrates, especially during the breeding season. These diving ducks forage by diving and foraging on the bottom of lakes and ponds, utilizing their strong, compact bodies to navigate underwater.
Conservation efforts for Redheads focus on wetland preservation and water quality management. Their populations are relatively stable, but habitat degradation remains a concern. Programs aimed at protecting and restoring wetlands are essential to ensure the continued health of Redhead populations.
17. Bufflehead
- Scientific name: Bucephala albeola
- Life span: 12-15 years
- Size: 32-40 cm (13-16 in)
- Weight: 270-550 g (9.5-19.4 oz)
- Wingspan: 46-54 cm (18-21 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and common
Buffleheads are small, striking ducks with males showing a large white patch on the back of the head and iridescent green and purple hues. Females are grey-brown with a white cheek patch. They inhabit ponds and lakes across North America.
Buffleheads nest in tree cavities, often using old woodpecker holes, particularly those of Northern Flickers. The female lines the cavity with down and lays 6-11 eggs, which she incubates for about 30 days. The male typically leaves once incubation begins, returning during the post-breeding season.
These small diving ducks feed primarily on aquatic invertebrates, such as insects, crustaceans, and mollusks. They also consume small fish and aquatic plants. Buffleheads forage by diving and swimming underwater, using their compact, agile bodies to navigate their prey-rich environments.
Conservation efforts for Buffleheads focus on preserving wetland and forested habitats. Their populations are relatively stable, benefiting from the availability of suitable nesting sites and clean waters. Continued protection of their breeding and wintering grounds is essential for their long-term health.
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: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Canvasbacks are large diving ducks with a distinctive sloping profile. Males have a reddish-brown head, black chest, and white body. They inhabit lakes and marshes in North America. Females are light brown with a similar profile.
Canvasbacks nest in marshes with dense vegetation. The female builds a nest over water, using reeds and sedges, anchoring it to emergent vegetation. She lays 7-10 eggs and incubates them for 24-29 days. The male stays nearby during incubation, offering protection and support.
These diving ducks primarily feed on aquatic plants, such as wild celery and pondweeds. They also consume small invertebrates, especially during the breeding season. Canvasbacks forage by diving and uprooting plants from the bottom of lakes and ponds, often diving to significant depths.
Canvasback populations have faced declines due to habitat loss and water pollution. Conservation efforts include wetland restoration and management, ensuring the availability of their preferred foods. Continued monitoring and protection of their habitats are vital to support their recovery and maintain stable populations.
19. 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
Greater Scaups are diving ducks with males showing a greenish-black head, white sides, and black tail. Females are brown with a white face patch. They are found in coastal waters and large inland lakes across North America and Eurasia.
Greater Scaups nest in boreal forests and tundra regions, often near freshwater lakes and rivers. The female builds a nest on the ground, hidden in tall grasses or shrubs. She lays 6-9 eggs and incubates them for about 24-28 days, with the male providing some protection.
These diving ducks primarily feed on mollusks, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. They also consume aquatic plants and seeds. Greater Scaups forage by diving and searching for food on the bottom of lakes and rivers, using their strong, rounded bodies to navigate underwater efficiently.
Conservation efforts for Greater Scaups include protecting breeding and wintering habitats. Their populations are generally stable, but they face threats from habitat degradation and pollution. Monitoring programs and habitat restoration projects are essential to ensure their long-term survival and health.
20. Lesser Scaup
- Scientific name: Aythya affinis
- Life span: 12-15 years
- Size: 38-48 cm (15-19 in)
- Weight: 400-1000 g (0.88-2.2 lb)
- Wingspan: 64-74 cm (25-29 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Lesser Scaups are similar to their greater relatives but are slightly smaller. Males have a purplish-black head, white sides, and grey back. Females are brown with a white face patch. They inhabit freshwater lakes and coastal bays in North America.
Lesser Scaups nest in wetlands, often near lakes or rivers. The female builds a nest on the ground, using grasses and down, and conceals it in dense vegetation. She lays 8-10 eggs and incubates them for about 23-27 days. The male typically leaves during incubation.
These diving ducks primarily feed on aquatic invertebrates, such as insects, mollusks, and crustaceans. They also consume aquatic plants and seeds. Lesser Scaups forage by diving and searching for food on the bottom of lakes and rivers, using their strong, compact bodies to navigate underwater.
Lesser Scaup populations have faced declines due to habitat loss and pollution. Conservation efforts include wetland restoration and monitoring programs. Protecting and restoring their habitats, especially breeding and wintering grounds, is crucial to support their recovery and maintain stable populations.
21. 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 rare
Black Scoters are sea ducks with males displaying entirely black plumage and a distinctive orange knob at the base of their bill. Females are brown with pale cheeks. They are found along northern coasts and large inland lakes.
Black Scoters nest in boreal forests and tundra regions near freshwater lakes and rivers. The female builds a nest on the ground, using grasses and down, often hidden in dense vegetation. She lays 5-9 eggs and incubates them for about 27-31 days, with the male often leaving after incubation starts.
These sea ducks primarily feed on mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish. They forage by diving and using their strong bills to capture prey. Black Scoters are well adapted to marine environments, allowing them to thrive on their coastal diet during the winter months.
Conservation efforts for Black Scoters focus on protecting breeding and wintering habitats. Their populations are stable, but they face threats from oil spills, overfishing, and habitat disturbance. Monitoring programs and habitat protection are crucial to ensure their continued survival and health.
22. 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 are known for their bold black-and-white pattern in males and their large, colourful bills. Females are brown with a distinctive head shape. They inhabit coastal waters across North America.
Surf Scoters nest in boreal forests and tundra regions near freshwater lakes and rivers. The female builds a nest on the ground, using grasses and down, often concealed in dense vegetation. She lays 5-9 eggs and incubates them for about 27-31 days, with the male typically leaving after incubation starts.
These striking sea ducks feed mainly on mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish. They forage by diving and using their strong bills to capture prey. Surf Scoters are highly adapted to marine environments, allowing them to thrive on their coastal diet during the winter.
Conservation efforts for Surf Scoters focus on protecting their breeding and wintering habitats. Their populations are relatively stable, but they face threats from oil spills, overfishing, and habitat disturbance. Continued monitoring and habitat protection are essential to ensure their long-term survival.
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 common
Common Goldeneyes are diving ducks with males exhibiting a greenish-black head, white body, and distinctive yellow eyes. Females are grey with a chocolate-brown head. They are found in forests and coastal waters across North America and Europe.
Common Goldeneyes nest in tree cavities, often using old woodpecker holes, particularly those of Northern Flickers. The female lines the cavity with down and lays 6-14 eggs, which she incubates for about 28-32 days. The male typically leaves once incubation begins.
These diving ducks feed primarily on aquatic invertebrates, such as insects, crustaceans, and mollusks. They also consume small fish and aquatic plants. Common Goldeneyes forage by diving and swimming underwater, using their strong, compact bodies to catch their prey.
Conservation efforts for Common Goldeneyes focus on preserving forested wetland habitats and protecting water quality. Their populations are relatively stable, benefiting from the availability of suitable nesting sites and clean waters. Continued protection of their breeding and wintering grounds is essential for their long-term survival.
24. 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 Teals are striking with males boasting cinnamon-red plumage and red eyes. They are found in western North and South America. Females are mottled brown, providing excellent camouflage in marshes and wetlands.
Cinnamon Teals nest in dense marsh vegetation or grassy fields, often near water. The female builds a shallow, cup-shaped nest using grass, stems, and down. She lays about 9-12 eggs, which she incubates for roughly 21-25 days while the male remains nearby.
These small, colourful dabbling ducks primarily consume aquatic plants, seeds, and insects. They forage by dabbling and upending in shallow waters, sometimes straining food particles through their bills. During the breeding season, they may also eat more protein-rich animal matter, like crustaceans and snails.
Conservation efforts for the Cinnamon Teal include habitat preservation and wetland restoration. Their populations are stable, but they benefit from continued protection of breeding and wintering habitats. Conservation programs often focus on protecting water quality and managing wetland ecosystems to ensure their long-term survival.
25. Common Merganser
- Scientific name: Mergus merganser
- Life span: 5-12 years
- Size: 22-25 in / 56-64 cm
- Weight: 2.2-3.1 lbs / 1.0-1.4 kg
- Wingspan: 26-30 in / 66-76 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Large, with a sleek profile, found in rivers and lakes across the U.S., males are sharply dressed in white and dark green, females in gray with a reddish head.
The Common Merganser prefers nesting in tree cavities or large nest boxes close to water, where the female creates a warm, down-lined nest. This preference for elevated nests protects their brood from ground predators and flooding, illustrating their adaptation to life in riparian ecosystems.
As adept piscivores, Common Mergansers hunt for fish in clear, freshwater rivers and lakes. Their specialized diet and hunting technique play a crucial role in controlling fish populations, highlighting the merganser’s significant ecological role as a top predator in aquatic food webs.
The focus of conservation efforts for the Common Merganser includes safeguarding riparian habitats and promoting clean water initiatives. Protecting these areas from pollution and development is essential for ensuring the availability of suitable nesting and foraging sites, underlining the interconnectedness of water quality and wildlife health.
Where to find Ducks in Minnesota
In Minnesota, duck watching is a delightful adventure. To find these beautiful birds, visit areas rich in wetlands, lakes, and rivers. A pair of binoculars and a good field guide are essential. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for spotting ducks.
Four top spots include:
- Minnesota River Valley, where diverse species thrive
- pristine waters of Lake Itasca
- Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, offering abundant viewing opportunities
- expansive wetlands of the Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge
These areas provide prime habitats, ensuring a rewarding and captivating duck-watching experience. Going out to your local pond, lake or river will also give you some worthwhile experiences, as Minnesota truly is a paradise for ducks.
Conclusion
Minnesota’s diverse duck species highlight the state’s rich wetlands and vibrant ecosystems. From the colourful Cinnamon Teal to the hardy Common Goldeneye, each species plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. Continued conservation efforts are essential to protect these habitats and ensure the ducks’ thriving populations for future generations.
