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Waterfowl Biology & Research


Learn all you could ever want to know about ducks and geese!  DU biologists have accumulated a wealth of research and findings about waterfowl and their behavior.  Whether looking for tips to improve your waterfowl ID skills or learning more about migration patterns, you've come to the right place!

Waterfowl ID

Learn fascinating information about various waterfowl species including breeding and migration information. In addition, you can even listen to what the waterfowl sound like in the wild, so you can easily identify them on your next outing. View the Gallery  | Waterfowl ID Quiz

Understanding Waterfowl

Ducks Unlimited has conducted extensive research on waterfowl biology. Our biologists have written numerous "Understanding Waterfowl" articles in DU Magazine. We're pleased to share dozens of these features online for you!  View articles

Waterfowl Lifecycle

In the space of one year a duck experiences the full spectrum of seasonal changes that usher in opportunities & challenges. Follow the life cycle diagram for a better understanding of the activities and energy requirements in different phases of a duck's annual cycle. Follow a Mallard Through the Annual Cycle.

Wood Duck Boxes

Creating a wood duck box and strategically placing it can draw birds into an area and create a local population. Learn how to build and maintain a wood duck box on your property!

Where Do Your Ducks Come From?

Did you know that biologists band more than 200,000 ducks and 150,000 geese every year?  With roughly 90,000 bands reported each year, the data explains waterfowl migration and habits.  As birds are reported or harvested, this information is placed onto maps, showing where the bird was banded and where it was reported.  These maps provide a glimpse of not only migration corridors, but where ducks in your area come from. Learn more.
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Migration Alert: Key on Water to Find Atlantic Waterfowl
October 12 – Atlantic Flyway – New York and Pennsylvania





















Migration Alert: All Signs Point to a Locals-Only Opener
F&S Duck Report: Central Flyway - Oct. 2















Fall Flight Update: A Year of Extremes
DU Chief Scientist sheds light on habitat, hunting






GORE-TEX® Products
Improving the outcome of your waterfowl hunt



Understanding Waterfowl: Drought and Deluge
We can't control the weather, but conserving wetlands and grasslands on the prairies will help ensure the long-term health of duck populations



Duck numbers remain strong as habitat declines
FWS survey indicates record duck numbers, average pond count



Habitat conservation priority for healthy bird populations in Canada
New report indicates waterfowl populations healthy, but threats to habitat escalating



Duck Numbers Remain Strong as Habitat Declines
FWS survey indicates record duck numbers, average pond count



North Dakota 2012 Spring Breeding Duck Survey
Spring Duck Index Up, Water Conditions Down


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