Wood Ducks

Wood Ducks are one of the most colorful birds found in Montana. Only the Harlequin Duck is more colorful.

A study of Wood Duck population conducted from 1975 to 1993 and published by US Fish and Wildlife in 1995, describes the population growth in Northern Montana, particularly Northwestern Montana of nesting wood ducks. "Wood duck population declines during the early 1900s throughout North America are well documented (Bellrose 1976a, 1976b, 1990). Biologists voiced fears of extinction, but populations began to recover in some states after passage of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in 1918."    Note 01

Wood Ducks enjoying fall colors in Kalispell's Woodland Park. On a sunny day, with the maple trees foliage in full, fall, glory the reflections of the autumn colors onto the bird pond at Woodland Park is at times breathtaking.

Wood duck chattering away. Wood ducks are found elsewhere in Montana, but for me, when I'm not in Yellowstone photographing elk in rut, fall at Woodland Park is the place.

"Winter wood duck habitat is limited in northern Montana, and wood ducks usually migrate south by 25 October. A wood duck was shot adjacent to the Missouri River approximately 6 km southwest and upstream from the mouth of the Milk River in January 1983,but this is the only known winter record. The earliest spring sighting was a pair near the mouth of the Milk River on 21 March 1982."   Note 01

The female Wood Duck has more color then the female Harlequin Duck. Wood ducks like their colorful cousins the Harlequin move quickly through the water. Unlike the Harlequin the Wood Duck prefers the waters of ponds and small lakes.

Note 01

Wood Duck Population Expansion in Northern Montana
US Fish and Wildlife Service US Fish and Wildlife Publications

- 1995 -

Dwain M. Prellwitz, John R. Little, Larry R. Rau and Christopher J. Hoff