: Breeds. but inconspicuous in woodland ponds and beaver flowages with birds lingering well into October at places like Witch Hole Pond.
Migration: from late Mar on ponds with marshy margins, with from early Mar depending on fresh water ice cover. mid Sep-mid Nov around the margins of marshy ponds, with from late Aug and to early Dec. on/over salt water.
Winters: mid Dec-late Feb on open fresh/brackish water often associated with other ducks where waterfowl are fed. Most winter birds are males.
Miscellany: Wood Ducks are admirably adapted to their forest homes with slim bodies, large eyes and long tails (for a duck), all useful in rapid flight weaving around tree trunks and limbs. Nests are typically in naturally occurring tree cavities including abandoned Pileated Woodpecker nest holes, but they also use nest boxes.
Last Reviewed: August 20th, 2026