In North Carolina, there are 25 species of water birds that are commonly seen. These birds are organized into three categories: ducks, geese, and swans; herons, ibises, and cranes; and grebes, loons, and other water birds. The most common water bird in the state is the Mallard, which can be found in any wetland habitat. Another water bird, the American Wigeon, prefers quiet lakes and marshes away from people and has a diet with a higher proportion of plant matter. The Northern Pintail, on the other hand, can be identified by its long tails and necks and tends to stick to shallower areas near the edges of lakes and ponds. Northern Shovelers have distinct spoon-shaped bills and can often be seen shoveling through mud and sand to find food. Blue-winged Teals have a blue shoulder patch and are the second most abundant duck in North America, while Green-winged Teals are one of the smallest water birds and often travel with other species. Wood Ducks have intricate plumage and can be found nesting in trees or elevated nesting boxes. Buffleheads are small ducks with a distinctive white patch on their head and are known for being picky nesters. Lastly, there are Canada Geese, large geese with a distinctive white cheek patch, which are very common in North Carolina and are often considered pests.
Ducks, Geese, and Swans
Mallards
Mallards are the most common water bird in North Carolina and can be found in any wetland habitat. These beautiful ducks have a vibrant green head, brownish-gray body, and a blue patch on their wings. Mallards are known for their adaptability and can thrive in both natural and urban environments. They are omnivores and feed on a variety of plants, insects, and small aquatic organisms. Mallards often form large flocks during the winter months and can be seen flying in V-shaped formations.
American Wigeons
American Wigeons prefer quiet lakes and marshes away from people. These ducks have a distinctive coloration, with a bright white crown and a rusty brown body. They are known for their unique feeding habits, as they have a higher proportion of plant matter in their diet compared to other ducks. American Wigeons feed on aquatic plants, grasses, and seeds. During the breeding season, they build their nests in upland areas near water and usually lay around 7-9 eggs.
Northern Pintails
Northern Pintails are elegant ducks with long tails and necks. They can often be found in shallow areas near the edges of lakes and ponds. These ducks have a slim body, a chocolate-brown head, and a white breast. The males have a distinctive long, slender tail feather. Northern Pintails primarily feed on seeds, aquatic plants, and small invertebrates. During the breeding season, they build nests on the ground and lay up to 10 eggs.
Northern Shovelers
Northern Shovelers are easily recognizable by their distinct spoon-shaped bills. These ducks can be seen shoveling through mud and sand to find food, hence their name. They have a deep blue speculum and a reddish-brown head. Northern Shovelers mainly feed on small invertebrates, seeds, and plant matter. They prefer shallow wetlands and are commonly found in marshes and lakes. During the breeding season, the male Northern Shoveler displays an elaborate courtship behavior to attract a mate.
Blue-winged Teals
Blue-winged Teals are the second most abundant duck in North America. These small ducks have a beautiful plumage, with an iridescent green patch on their head and a blue shoulder patch. They primarily feed on seeds, aquatic plants, and invertebrates. Blue-winged Teals are highly migratory and can be found in North Carolina during the winter months. They prefer freshwater wetlands and can often be seen in shallow marshes or flooded fields.
Green-winged Teals
Green-winged Teals are one of the smallest water birds, but don’t let their size fool you. These ducks are swift and agile fliers. They have a mottled brown body with a distinctive green patch on their wing. Green-winged Teals often travel with other species of ducks and can be found in various types of wetlands, including marshes, ponds, and flooded fields. They primarily feed on seeds, aquatic plants, and small invertebrates.
Wood Ducks
Wood Ducks are known for their intricate plumage and unique patterns. These ducks have a colorful appearance, with a glossy green head, a white throat, and a brownish-gray body. Wood Ducks are cavity nesters and can be found nesting in trees or elevated nesting boxes. They have a varied diet that includes seeds, nuts, fruits, and insects. Wood Ducks are a common sight in wooded wetlands and can often be seen perched on branches or foraging in the water.
Buffleheads
Buffleheads are small ducks with a distinctive white patch on their head. These ducks have a striking appearance, with a black body and a white belly. Buffleheads are picky nesters and typically choose cavities in trees near water bodies. They primarily feed on aquatic invertebrates, small fish, and crustaceans. Buffleheads are often seen diving underwater to catch their prey and can be found in coastal bays, lakes, and rivers.
Hooded Mergansers
Hooded Mergansers are unique ducks with an unmistakable black crest. These ducks have a slender body, a white patch on their wings, and a long, thin bill. Hooded Mergansers primarily feed on small fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. They are diving ducks and can swim underwater for extended periods to catch their prey. Hooded Mergansers breed in forested wetlands and can be found in North Carolina during both the breeding and winter months.
Canada Geese
Canada Geese are large geese with a distinctive white cheek patch. These geese are very common and often considered pests due to their habit of congregating in large numbers and leaving droppings in parks and other public areas. Canada Geese primarily feed on grass, leaves, and grains. They are highly adaptable and can be found in various habitats, including wetlands, fields, and urban areas. Canada Geese are known for their V-shaped flying formations during migration.
With a total of 25 species, North Carolina is a haven for water birds. From the vibrant Mallards to the elegant Northern Pintails and the small but agile Green-winged Teals, there is a wide variety of ducks to admire. The American Wigeons and Buffleheads showcase their unique characteristics, while the Hooded Mergansers and Canada Geese make their presence known with distinct features. Whether you’re exploring wetlands, lakes, or ponds, you’re bound to come across these fascinating water birds in North Carolina.
