
Aix sponsa
Considered one of the most stunning of all waterfowl, the wood duck's scientific name, Aix sponsa means "waterbird in bridal dress".
Wood duck Behavior and facts
- Wood ducks are one of few waterfowl to commonly perch in trees.
- Wood ducks have strong claws, which allow them to grip branches.
- Wood ducks have bright red eyes and a reddish beak.
- They forage or dabble for food in shallow water – eating seeds, aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates.
- Wood ducks are the only North American duck that regularly produces two broods a year.
Life history
- Unlike most waterfowl, the wood duck builds its nest in tree cavities near water.
- Females usually lay 6-16 eggs, which they incubate for 25-37 days.
- Ducklings are well developed and able to leave the nest on the same day that they hatch.
- Young wood ducks leave the nest by jumping out of their tree cavity to the ground. The drop can sometimes exceed 100 feet.
- Young are typically able to fly by the time they are 8-10 weeks old.
Status
IUCN Least concern
Wood ducks, the Oregon Zoo and you
The zoo's wood ducks live in the Cascade Stream and Pond aviary.

DID YOU KNOW?
Metro's voter-approved Natural Areas Program has protected more than 90 miles of rivers and streams in the Portland region. Find out how Metro is working to conserve and restore habitat for waterfowl and other wildlife.