Wood Duck

Aix sponsa (Linnaeus, 1758)

Wood Duck, Aix sponsa, is a duck in the Anatidae family and is widespread across North America for breeding. It is a medium-sized perching duck and is one of the few duck species that can perch and nest in trees. Breeding takes place in wooded swamps, shallow lakes, marshes, ponds and creeks, with nests usually placed in tree cavities near water. The species has expanded its breeding area towards the Great Plains, and most breeding now occurs in the Mississippi alluvial valley.

Order

Anseriformes

Family

Anatidae — Ducks, Geese, Swans

Breeding range

North America: widespread

Nonbreeding range

s USA to n Mexico