25 Ducks in Ohio (With Pictures)

25 Ducks in Ohio (With Pictures)

Ohio’s wetlands come alive each year with the vibrant presence of diverse duck species. From the common Mallard to the striking Wood Duck, these feathered inhabitants bring color and life to the state’s waterways. Whether migratory or resident, ducks such as the Northern Pintail and American Wigeon navigate Ohio’s rich habitats, offering birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts a dynamic display of avian beauty.

This article explores the fascinating world of Ohio’s ducks, highlighting their breeding patterns, migration journeys, and the conservation efforts that ensure their populations continue to thrive in the Buckeye State.

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

Mallards, found across the northern hemisphere, are easily recognized by the male’s glossy green head, white neck ring, and chestnut-brown chest. Females are mottled brown with an orange bill. They inhabit lakes, ponds, and rivers, often seen dabbling in shallow waters.

Mallard

Mallards are incredibly versatile nesters. They typically choose locations near water but are also found nesting in urban parks, backyards, and even on rooftops. Females create a shallow depression lined with down feathers, laying 8-13 eggs. The mother incubates the eggs, leading the ducklings to water soon after they hatch for their first swim.

Mallards boast a varied diet, primarily feasting on aquatic plants, insects, and small fish. They are opportunistic feeders and can adapt to various food sources, including grains from agricultural fields. In urban areas, they frequently scavenge for food scraps, demonstrating remarkable adaptability.

Mallards are currently abundant and widespread, benefiting from extensive conservation efforts focused on wetland preservation. Historically, their populations have remained stable due to effective wildlife management practices, including the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, which has ensured the protection of critical habitats across their range.

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: Migratory and common

Northern Pintails are sleek and graceful, with males sporting a long, pointed tail and striking brown head with a white neck stripe. Females are plainer, in mottled brown. They are found in open wetlands and are known for their long migrations.

Northern Pintail

Northern Pintails prefer open, expansive habitats for nesting, such as grasslands and tundra. They nest in shallow depressions far from water to avoid predators. The female lays about 7-9 eggs, and her strong homing instincts often lead her back to the same breeding area each year.

Northern Pintails have a diverse diet, feeding on seeds, aquatic plants, and small invertebrates. They forage in shallow waters, dabbling and tipping up to access food. During the breeding season, they consume more animal matter to meet their increased nutritional requirements.

Northern Pintails face moderate conservation concerns due to habitat loss and agricultural practices. Efforts to protect their breeding habitats and promote sustainable agriculture are essential. Historical declines have been mitigated through wetland conservation and international agreements protecting migratory birds.

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 common

Northern Shovelers are distinctive with their large, spatula-shaped bills. Males boast bright green heads, white chests, and rusty flanks, while females are mottled brown. They are common in shallow wetlands across North America, Europe, and Asia.

Northern Shoveler

Northern Shovelers choose dense vegetation near water for nesting. The female creates a shallow scrape lined with down and lays 9-12 eggs. They nest later in the season, aligning with peak invertebrate availability, ensuring abundant food for their growing ducklings.

Northern Shovelers use their distinctive spatula-shaped bills to filter feed in shallow waters, consuming small aquatic invertebrates and plant matter. Their unique feeding technique allows them to access food resources that other dabbling ducks might miss, giving them a competitive edge.

Northern Shovelers have stable populations, thanks to ongoing wetland preservation efforts. Historical conservation measures, including international agreements and habitat restoration projects, have helped maintain their numbers, ensuring their habitats are protected and sustainable hunting practices are in place.

4. 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 uncommon​

Long-tailed Ducks are distinctive with males in breeding plumage featuring long, pointed tail feathers and striking black and white patterns. Females are more subdued in gray and white. They are found in Arctic waters and migrate to coastal areas in winter.

Long-tailed Duck

Long-tailed Ducks nest in tundra regions near freshwater lakes and ponds. The female builds a ground nest in dense vegetation, lined with down feathers. Nesting begins in June, with the female laying 6-9 eggs. The ducklings are precocial, leaving the nest soon after hatching and following their mother to water.

Long-tailed Ducks have a varied diet that includes crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. They are adept divers, often foraging in deep waters to find prey. They also consume aquatic insects and plant material.

Long-tailed Ducks are monitored for potential threats from habitat loss and climate change. Conservation efforts focus on protecting Arctic breeding grounds and coastal wintering areas. International cooperation is crucial due to their migratory nature.

5. Lesser Scaup

  • Scientific name: Aythya affinis
  • Life span: 12-15 years
  • Size: 38-48 cm (15-19 in)
  • Weight: 400-1000 g (0.88-2.2 lb)
  • Wingspan: 64-74 cm (25-29 in)
  • Status: Least Concern
  • State status: Migratory and common

Lesser Scaups are medium-sized diving ducks with males showcasing a black head, chest, and rear, with a gray back. Females are brown with a white face patch. They are found on lakes and coastal waters, often in large rafts during winter.  

Lesser Scaup

Lesser Scaups nest in marshes and wetlands with dense vegetation. The female builds a nest on the ground, often concealed by tall grasses or reeds. The nest is lined with down feathers. Nesting begins in late May, with the female laying 9-11 eggs.

Lesser Scaups have a varied diet, feeding primarily on aquatic invertebrates such as insects, mollusks, and crustaceans. They also consume aquatic plants and seeds. They are proficient divers, foraging along the bottom of water bodies to find food. Their diet changes seasonally, depending on food availability.

Lesser Scaup populations have experienced declines due to habitat loss and pollution. Conservation efforts focus on wetland preservation and restoration. Legal protections and research initiatives aim to understand and mitigate the factors affecting their populations.

6. Eurasian Wigeon

  • Scientific name: Anas penelope
  • Life span: 7-10 years
  • Size: 42–52 cm (17–20 inches)
  • Weight: 0,5–1 kg (1.1–2.4 lbs) ​
  • Wingspan: 71–80 cm (28–31 inches)
  • Status: Least Concern
  • State status: Migratory and rare

Eurasian Wigeons are notable for the male’s rust-coloured head and creamy forehead. Females are more subdued in mottled brown. Found across Europe and Asia, they often join flocks of American Wigeons in North America during migration.

Eurasian Wigeon

Eurasian Wigeons nest in grasslands and marshes, often close to water. The female builds a shallow nest lined with down and lays 7-10 eggs. She incubates the eggs alone, and the ducklings are led to water shortly after hatching, where they begin feeding on vegetation and small invertebrates.

Eurasian Wigeons primarily graze on aquatic plants, feeding in shallow waters or on land. During the breeding season, they consume insects and small invertebrates to meet their nutritional needs. They are often seen foraging in wetlands and grassy areas.

Eurasian Wigeons are not currently threatened, with stable populations across their range. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining healthy wetland habitats and monitoring population trends. Historically, international conservation agreements and habitat protection initiatives have supported their populations.

7. 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 sporting entirely black plumage with a bright orange knob at the base of the bill. Females are brown with a pale face. They breed in the far north and winter along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts.

Black Scoter

Black Scoters nest in boreal forests and tundra regions near freshwater lakes and ponds. The female builds a ground nest in dense vegetation, lined with down feathers. Nesting starts in June, with the female laying 6-9 eggs. The ducklings are precocial, leaving the nest shortly after hatching.

Black Scoters primarily feed on mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish. They are strong divers, often foraging in coastal waters during winter. They also consume aquatic insects and plant material. Their diet adapts to the availability of food resources in their habitat.

Black Scoters are monitored due to concerns about habitat degradation and oil spills. Conservation efforts focus on protecting coastal and freshwater habitats. Legal protections and international cooperation are essential to ensure their populations remain stable.

8. 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 striking sea ducks with males displaying bold black and white patterns and colourful bills, while females are brown with a subtle facial pattern. They breed in the Arctic and migrate to coastal waters, often seen in rough surf.    

Surf Scoter

Surf Scoters nest in boreal forests and tundra regions near freshwater bodies. The female builds a ground nest in dense vegetation, lined with down feathers. Nesting begins in June, with the female laying 5-9 eggs.

Surf Scoters have a diet that includes mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish. They are proficient divers, often foraging in coastal waters. They also consume aquatic insects and plant material. Their diet changes seasonally, adapting to the availability of prey in their habitat.

Surf Scoters are monitored for potential threats from habitat loss and oil spills. Conservation efforts focus on protecting coastal and freshwater habitats. Legal protections and international cooperation are crucial for their survival. Maintaining healthy ecosystems is essential to support their populations.

9. American Wigeon

  • Scientific name: Mareca americana
  • Life span: 12-15 years
  • Size: 42-59 cm (17-23 in)
  • Weight: 600-1200 g (1.3-2.6 lb)
  • Wingspan: 76-91 cm (30-36 in)
  • Status: Least Concern
  • State status: Migratory and common

The American Wigeon, with its distinct white crown and green eye stripe on males, ranges across North America. Females are brownish-gray with a subtle dark eye patch. They favor marshes and wetlands, providing a beautiful sight during migration periods.

American Wigeon

American Wigeons often nest in grassy areas close to water bodies. The female crafts a shallow, hidden nest and lays between 6-12 eggs. She alone incubates the eggs, with ducklings hatching synchronously and being led to water immediately, where they begin foraging for food.

American Wigeons primarily consume aquatic plants and grasses, grazing in both wetland and terrestrial environments. Their diet changes seasonally, incorporating more insects and small invertebrates during the breeding season to meet their protein needs, ensuring they remain well-nourished and healthy.

American Wigeons are categorized as Least Concern, with stable populations thanks to wetland conservation and management efforts. Over time, conservation measures such as international agreements and habitat restoration have helped maintain their numbers, ensuring they continue to thrive in their natural habitats.

10. 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 among the most colourful waterfowl, with males displaying iridescent green and purple plumage, red eyes, and a distinctive crest. Females are gray-brown with a white eye-ring. They are found in wooded swamps and marshes throughout North America.

Wood Duck

Wood Ducks are unique for their preference for nesting in tree cavities near water. They readily use nest boxes when natural cavities are scarce. Females lay 10-15 eggs and incubate them alone. After hatching, the ducklings leap from the nest and are led to water by their mother.

Wood Ducks have a diverse diet, including seeds, fruits, and aquatic invertebrates. They forage in shallow waters by dabbling and tipping up. In wooded areas, they also consume acorns and nuts, using their strong bills to crack open the shells.

Wood Ducks are a conservation success story. Once near extinction due to habitat loss and hunting, they have rebounded thanks to nest box programs and wetland protection efforts. Today, their populations are stable and continue to grow, demonstrating the effectiveness of focused conservation initiatives.

11. Blue-winged Teal

  • Scientific name: Spatula discors
  • Life span: 5-10 years
  • Size: 40-47 cm (16-19 in)
  • Weight: 280-420 g (9.9-14.8 oz)
  • Wingspan: 58-63 cm (23-25 in)
  • Status: Least Concern
  • State status: Breeding and common

The Blue-winged Teal is easily identified by the male’s blue-gray head and white facial crescent. Females are mottled brown with a subtle blue wing patch. These small ducks are common in marshes and ponds across North America.

Blue-winged Teal

Blue-winged Teals prefer dense, grassy areas near water for nesting. The female constructs a well-hidden nest on the ground, laying 6-14 eggs. She alone incubates the eggs and leads the ducklings to water shortly after they hatch, where they begin foraging immediately.

Blue-winged Teals primarily feed on seeds and aquatic vegetation, foraging in shallow waters by dabbling and tipping up. During the breeding season, they also consume insects and small crustaceans, which provide essential protein for their diet.

Blue-winged Teals are not currently at risk, thanks to stable populations supported by wetland protection and management. Historical conservation programs and international agreements have played a significant role in maintaining their numbers and ensuring their habitats are preserved.

12. Gadwall

  • Scientific name: Mareca strepera
  • Life span: 5-10 years
  • Size: 46-56 cm (18-22 in)
  • Weight: 800-1,350 g (1.8-3 lb)
  • Wingspan: 81-95 cm (32-37 in)
  • Status: Least Concern
  • State status: Breeding and common

Gadwalls are subtly elegant ducks, with males displaying a finely patterned gray body and a black rump. Females are mottled brown with an orange-edged bill. These ducks are widespread across North America and Europe, frequenting marshes and open waters.

Gadwall

Gadwalls are discreet nesters, often choosing secluded grassy areas away from water to avoid predators. The female builds a well-concealed nest and lays about 7-12 eggs. Their late breeding season helps avoid competition with other waterfowl, giving their offspring a better chance of survival.

Gadwalls mainly feed on aquatic vegetation, including leaves, stems, and seeds. They dabble at the water’s surface or tip up to reach submerged plants. Occasionally, they supplement their diet with small invertebrates, especially during the breeding season to support their nutritional needs.

Gadwalls have stable populations, thanks to focused conservation efforts on wetland preservation. Initiatives like the North American Waterfowl Management Plan have been crucial in protecting their habitats, ensuring these elegant ducks continue to flourish across their range.

13. Green-winged Teal

  • Scientific name: Anas crecca
  • Life span: 5-10 years
  • Size: 33-38 cm (13-15 in)
  • Weight: 150-400 g (5.3-14.1 oz)
  • Wingspan: 53-59 cm (21-23 in)
  • Status: Least Concern
  • State status: Migratory and common

Green-winged Teals, North America’s smallest dabbling ducks, are striking with males featuring a green eye patch and chestnut head. Females are mottled brown. They are widespread across North America, preferring shallow wetlands and ponds.

Green-winged Teal

Green-winged Teals nest in various habitats, from marshes to forested wetlands. The female builds a hidden nest on the ground, laying 6-11 eggs. She incubates them alone, and the ducklings, once hatched, are led to water to start feeding on their own.

Green-winged Teals have a versatile diet, feeding on seeds, aquatic plants, and small invertebrates. They forage in shallow waters, often dabbling and tipping up. During migration, they also take advantage of flooded fields and agricultural areas to find food.

Green-winged Teals have resilient populations, supported by wetland conservation and sustainable hunting practices. Historical data indicates their populations remain stable, thanks to international conservation agreements and habitat protection initiatives that ensure their continued survival.

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 uncommon

American Black Ducks, primarily found in eastern North America, are dark brown with a contrasting lighter face and yellow bill in males. They resemble female Mallards but are darker overall. They frequent coastal marshes and inland wetlands.

American Black Duck

American Black Ducks nest in diverse wetland habitats, often choosing dense vegetation or small islands for their nests. The female builds a well-concealed nest and lays 9-11 eggs. She incubates the eggs alone and leads the ducklings to water soon after hatching.

American Black Ducks are omnivorous, feeding on seeds, aquatic plants, and small invertebrates. They forage in shallow waters by dabbling and tipping up. In winter, they also consume mollusks and crustaceans, taking advantage of coastal food sources.

American Black Ducks have faced challenges from habitat loss and hybridization with Mallards. Conservation efforts focus on habitat restoration and management, as well as monitoring hybridization rates. These initiatives have helped stabilize their populations, though continued conservation efforts are necessary.

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: Migratory and common​

Ring-necked Ducks, despite their name, have a barely visible chestnut neck ring. Males are black and gray with a distinctive peaked head and white ring on their bill, while females are brown with a subtle face pattern. They often visit freshwater ponds and lakes.

Ring-necked Duck

Ring-necked Ducks nest in marshes, bogs, and other wetlands with dense vegetation. They build their nests over water, anchored to emergent vegetation like cattails or bulrushes. The nest is a well-concealed platform made of plant material and lined with down feathers. Females lay 6-14 eggs and are responsible for incubation.

Ring-necked Ducks have a diverse diet, feeding primarily on aquatic plants during the breeding season. They consume leaves, seeds, and roots of submerged vegetation. In addition to plant matter, they eat aquatic insects, mollusks, and small crustaceans. Their foraging behavior involves diving and dabbling in shallow water.

Ring-necked Ducks have benefited from wetland conservation programs aimed at preserving their breeding and wintering habitats. While they are currently not considered a species at risk, habitat loss and pollution pose ongoing threats.

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: Migratory and common​

Redheads are medium-sized diving ducks, with males characterized by a round, red head, black chest, and gray body. Females are brown with a paler face. They breed in prairie potholes and winter in large flocks on lakes and coastal waters.

Redhead

Redheads often lay eggs in the nests of other ducks, but they also build their own nests in dense vegetation over water. The nest is made of reeds and grasses, lined with down feathers. Females lay 9-14 eggs and may lay eggs in multiple nests.

Redheads have a varied diet consisting mainly of aquatic vegetation. They feed on leaves, stems, seeds, and tubers of submerged plants. They also consume mollusks, small fish, and aquatic insects. Redheads are strong divers, often submerging completely to forage.

Redheads have faced significant challenges due to habitat loss and degradation. Wetland drainage and pollution have reduced their breeding and wintering habitats. Conservation efforts include protecting and restoring wetlands through initiatives like the North American Waterfowl Management Plan.

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 uncommon​

Buffleheads are small, striking ducks with males displaying a large white patch on the back of their heads and iridescent black plumage. Females are gray-brown with a small white cheek patch. They inhabit small lakes and coastal waters across North America.

Bufflehead

Buffleheads are cavity nesters, typically using old woodpecker holes in trees near water. They often return to the same nest site year after year. The female lines the nest with down feathers to insulate the eggs and keep them warm. Nesting usually starts in late April to early May, and the female lays around 6-11 eggs.

Buffleheads have a diverse diet that shifts with the seasons. In the summer, they primarily consume insects, larvae, and other small invertebrates found in freshwater habitats. During winter, their diet switches to crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish, which they dive to catch in coastal waters or large lakes.

Buffleheads are currently listed as a species of least concern, thanks in part to their widespread distribution and stable population. However, conservation efforts focus on preserving their nesting habitats, particularly the boreal forests in Canada where many of them breed. Legal protections and habitat conservation programs have helped their populations recover.

18. Ruddy Duck

  • Scientific name: Oxyura jamaicensis
  • Life span: 6-8 years
  • Size: 36-43 cm (14-17 in)
  • Weight: 430-790 g (0.95-1.74 lb)
  • Wingspan: 61-74 cm (24-29 in)
  • Status: Least Concern
  • State status: Breeding and uncommon​

Ruddy Ducks are small, stout diving ducks. Males in breeding plumage are vibrant with sky-blue bills and rich chestnut bodies, while females are gray-brown with a dark cap and pale cheek. They are found in marshes and ponds across North America.

Ruddy Duck

Ruddy Ducks nest in dense marshes with tall vegetation. They build their nests over water, anchoring them to cattails or bulrushes. The nest is a simple structure lined with down feathers. The female lays 5-15 eggs and is solely responsible for incubation.

Ruddy Ducks are adept divers, primarily feeding on aquatic invertebrates. Their diet includes insects, crustaceans, and small mollusks, which they capture by diving and foraging along the bottom of water bodies. In winter, their diet shifts to include more plant material such as seeds and roots of aquatic plants.

Ruddy Duck populations are stable but face threats from habitat destruction and pollution. Conservation efforts focus on protecting and restoring wetland habitats essential for their breeding and feeding. Legal protection under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act has helped reduce hunting pressure.

19. 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 uncommon​

Canvasbacks are large diving ducks, with males showcasing a sloping profile with a rusty red head, black chest, and white body. Females are brownish with a similar profile. They breed in prairie potholes and winter in large flocks on coastal bays and lakes.

Canvasback

Canvasbacks build their nests in dense marsh vegetation, usually over water, creating a floating platform made of reeds and grasses. The female lines the nest with down feathers for insulation. The nesting season begins in late May, and the female lays 7-9 eggs.

Canvasbacks are diving ducks with a preference for aquatic plants, which make up the bulk of their diet. They particularly favor the tubers and roots of plants like wild celery, which they dig up from the bottom of lakes and rivers. In addition to plants, they also consume mollusks, small fish, and aquatic insects.

Canvasbacks have experienced significant population fluctuations due to habitat loss and hunting pressure. In the early 20th century, overhunting severely reduced their numbers, prompting strict hunting regulations. Conservation efforts have focused on wetland preservation and restoration to ensure they have adequate breeding and wintering habitats.

20. 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 similar to their lesser cousins, with males exhibiting a greenish-black head and white sides, while females are brown with a white face patch. They breed in the Arctic and winter along coasts and large lakes in North America.

Greater Scaup

Greater Scaups nest in tundra and boreal forest wetlands. The female builds a ground nest in dense vegetation, often near water. The nest is lined with down feathers. Nesting starts in late May to early June, with the female laying 6-14 eggs.

Greater Scaups primarily feed on mollusks, aquatic insects, and crustaceans. They are excellent divers, often foraging in deeper waters. They also consume aquatic plants and small fish.

Greater Scaup populations are monitored due to concerns about habitat loss and pollution. Conservation efforts focus on protecting breeding and wintering habitats. Wetland preservation and pollution control are essential to ensure their populations remain stable.

21. Hooded Merganser

  • Scientific name: Lophodytes cucullatus
  • Life span: 6-12 years
  • Size: 40-49 cm (16-19 in)
  • Weight: 400-700 g (0.88-1.54 lb)
  • Wingspan: 63-76 cm (25-30 in)
  • Status: Least Concern
  • State status: Breeding and common

Hooded Mergansers are small, striking ducks with males featuring a large white crest that fans out when displaying. Females are brown with a smaller crest. They inhabit wooded ponds and rivers across North America, nesting in tree cavities.

Hooded Merganser

Hooded Mergansers are cavity nesters, favouring tree cavities near water or nest boxes provided by conservationists. The female lines the nest with down feathers to keep the eggs warm. Nesting begins in late March to early April, with the female laying 9-12 eggs.

Hooded Mergansers primarily feed on small fish, amphibians, and aquatic insects. They are excellent divers, using their narrow, serrated bills to catch slippery prey. They also consume crustaceans and mollusks. Their diet varies seasonally, adapting to the availability of food resources in their habitat.

Hooded Mergansers benefit from forest conservation and the installation of nest boxes, which provide essential nesting sites. They are currently listed as a species of least concern, but ongoing habitat preservation is crucial.

22. Red-breasted Merganser

  • Scientific name: Mergus serrator
  • Life span: 9-14 years
  • Size: 54-62 cm (21-24 in)
  • Weight: 700-1,600 g (1.5-3.5 lb)
  • Wingspan: 66-81 cm (26-32 in)
  • Status: Least Concern
  • State status: Migratory and uncommon

Red-breasted Mergansers are streamlined diving ducks with spiky crests. Males have a green head, red eyes, and rusty breast, while females are gray with a reddish head. They breed in northern regions and winter along coastlines and large lakes.

Red-breasted Merganser

Red-breasted Mergansers nest in a variety of locations, including ground sites, dense vegetation, and occasionally tree cavities. They prefer nesting near freshwater or coastal areas. The female lines the nest with down feathers and lays 5-13 eggs. Nesting typically starts in late May, with ducklings leaving the nest soon after hatching.

Red-breasted Mergansers have a diet that consists mainly of fish, which they catch by diving. They also consume crustaceans and aquatic insects. They are highly skilled divers, often hunting in groups to corral fish.

Red-breasted Mergansers benefit from the protection of coastal and freshwater habitats. They are currently not considered at risk, but conservation efforts focus on maintaining clean water bodies and protecting nesting sites.

23. Common Goldeneye

  • Scientific name: Bucephala clangula
  • Life span: 6-12 years
  • Size: 40-51 cm (16-20 in)
  • Weight: 800-1,550 g (1.8-3.4 lb)
  • Wingspan: 66-81 cm (26-32 in)
  • Status: Least Concern
  • State status: Migratory and uncommon

Common Goldeneyes are striking with males displaying a dark green head, bright yellow eyes, and a white body. Females are gray with a brown head and yellow eyes. They are found in boreal forests, nesting in tree cavities, and wintering on lakes and coastal waters.

Common Goldeneye

Common Goldeneyes are cavity nesters, often using abandoned woodpecker holes or nest boxes provided by conservationists. They prefer nesting sites near water, such as lakes and rivers. The female lines the nest with down feathers for insulation. Nesting usually starts in late April, with the female laying 6-12 eggs.

Common Goldeneyes have a varied diet that includes aquatic invertebrates like insects, crustaceans, and mollusks. They are also known to eat small fish and plant material. Goldeneyes are skilled divers, often foraging in deep waters to catch their prey.

Common Goldeneyes benefit from conservation efforts focused on preserving their nesting and wintering habitats. Nest box programs have been particularly successful in providing suitable nesting sites.

24. 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: Migratory and uncommon

Common Mergansers are large, sleek diving ducks. Males have a striking white body with a dark green head, while females are gray with a reddish-brown head. They are found in freshwater lakes and rivers, often seen hunting fish in clear waters.

Common Merganser

Common Mergansers nest in tree cavities, rock crevices, or nest boxes near freshwater lakes and rivers. The female lines the nest with down feathers. Nesting typically begins in late April, with the female laying 6-17 eggs. T

Common Mergansers are primarily piscivorous, feeding on fish. They also consume amphibians, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. They are adept divers, catching fish with their serrated bills. Their diet varies depending on the availability of prey in their freshwater habitats.

Common Mergansers benefit from freshwater habitat conservation and legal protections. They are not considered a species at risk, but conservation efforts focus on maintaining clean, healthy aquatic ecosystems.

25. Muscovy Duck

  • Scientific name: Cairina moschata
  • Life span: 8-12 years
  • Size: 26-33 in (66-84 cm)
  • Weight: 6.6-15 lbs (3-6.8 kg)
  • Wingspan: 54-64 in (137-162 cm)
  • Status: Least Concern
  • State status: Breeding and rare​

Muscovy Ducks, native to Central and South America, are distinctive with their large size and unique facial caruncles. Wild males are glossy black with white wing patches, while domesticated varieties can be white or multi-coloured. They prefer wooded rivers and ponds.

Muscovy Duck

Muscovy Ducks prefer nesting in tree cavities or dense vegetation near water. Females lay 8-16 eggs in well-concealed nests, which they diligently incubate alone. The highly precocial ducklings leave the nest shortly after hatching and follow their mother to water.

Muscovy Ducks have a varied diet, including aquatic vegetation, insects, and small fish. They forage in shallow waters, often dabbling and tipping up. In urban areas, they adapt to consuming human-provided food, showcasing their remarkable adaptability to different environments.

Muscovy Ducks have stable populations in their native range. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and monitoring introduced populations. Their adaptability and use of diverse habitats have ensured their continued survival and stable population numbers.

Where to find Ducks in Ohio

Finding ducks in Ohio is a delightful adventure, with many prime spots to explore. Head to the Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, a top spot for viewing a variety of waterfowl, especially during migration seasons. The Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge offers extensive wetlands that attract diverse duck species year-round. For a serene experience, visit the Killbuck Marsh Wildlife Area, where the tranquil waters provide excellent birdwatching opportunities. Lastly, the Big Island Wildlife Area is a hidden gem, teeming with waterfowl in its marshes and ponds. Equip yourself with binoculars, a field guide, and a sense of wonder to enjoy Ohio’s duck habitats.

Conclusion

Ohio’s diverse wetlands and waterways create a thriving habitat for numerous duck species. From the colourful Wood Duck to the adaptable Mallard, each species contributes to the vibrant avian life. Ongoing conservation efforts ensure these magnificent birds continue to enrich Ohio’s natural landscape, offering endless opportunities for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

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