Wood Duck (Pointed Tertail)

The Wood Duck represents a real live conservation success story. After coming close to extinction in the early part of the 20th century.  A strong effort to provide nesting boxes and habitat conservation was brought fourth by sportsmen and hunting organizations alike.  Woodies are now the second most common duck species on the East Coast.

The vibrant colors of the Drake sets this small duck apart from all other wild ducks in North America. Wood Ducks are usually are found around rivers, creeks and flood plains near wooded areas and are one of the very few ducks that prefer to nest well off the ground.

Both sexes sport crested heads. In flight Wood Ducks are identifiable by their short broad wings and large rectangular tail, an adaptation that allows them to navigate among the tangled branches of the woodland habitats they tend to prefer.