|
Michigan dnr > wildlife viewing guide
> waterfowl
Weasel Family | Songbirds | Waterfowl | Birds of Prey | Night
Species
Waterfowl
Ducks
Ducks come in many shapes and colors. Most Michigan ducks can be divided into two
broad groups that are named for their eating habits.
 Dabblers
(also called puddle ducks) have broad, flat bills that they use to feed on
plants, seeds, and insects in water less than one foot deep. They are most
often seen in shallow areas of ponds, lakes, or slow-moving water. They take
off from the water with a sudden, upward leap into the air.
Divers Most
diving ducks have stout bodies, short necks and tails, and large paddle feet.
They dive to feed on fish, shellfish, insects, and aquatic plants. They are
most often seen in open-water areas of large, deep lakes and rivers. Most of
them must run along the water’s surface to gain enough speed to become
airborne.
 Geese
Geese have heavier bodies and longer necks than ducks. Male and female
geese look the same. Geese have strong legs that are well-suited for walking.
They are grazers and spend a lot of time clipping grass and eating waste
grain in farm fields far from the water.
 Swans
Swans are the largest of all waterfowl, yet they are
graceful in the air and on the water. Their bodies are all white, and males
and females look alike. Their necks are longer than their bodies. Like
dabbling ducks, most swans are found on ponds and lakes where they “tip up”
to feed on underwater vegetation only as deep as they can reach. Notice the
difference between the bill of the native trumpeter swan and that of the mute
swan, an ornamental swan introduced from Europe.
top
|
