Gadwalls are found in North America, Europe and Asia. These ducks live in a variety of habitats throughout the year including lakes, ponds and marshes, as well as prairies, valleys and forests.
The life of a gadwall
Gadwalls grow 18 to 21 inches long, weigh one to 2.3 pounds and live up to 28 years. Unlike many other dabbling duck species, gadwalls do not have bright feathers. Both males and females are known for their brown and gray color.
Gadwalls tend to nest near water. Females make nests out of weeds and grass lined with down feathers. Females lay one egg a day over the course of seven to 12 days. Multiple females sometimes lay eggs in the same nest.
Gadwalls mainly eat aquatic plants, as well as some insects, crustaceans, mollusks and small fish. Ducklings begin life eating mainly insects before adding more vegetation to their diets. They feed by floating on the water’s surface dabbling for food, submerging their heads underwater.
Predators include hawks and crows, as well as raccoons, coyotes, foxes, badgers, weasels and minks. Duck hunters also pose a threat to gadwalls.
Gadwalls at the zoo
Located in the Cascade Stream and Pond area.
