Waterfowl

Wood duck

Aix sponsa

A strikingly patterned duck of wooded ponds, sloughs and marsh edges, present all year in lowland Whatcom and Skagit counties and most visible in spring.

Seasonality

Peaks in April. Present all year; most visible from March to July around breeding ponds.

Behavior

Stays close to cover, often resting on logs or under overhanging branches.
Nests in tree cavities and nest boxes near water.
Drakes are in full breeding plumage from late fall through spring.

Photography tips

The drake's glossy colors look best in soft, even light; harsh sun burns out the white face markings.
Sit quietly at the water's edge; wood ducks often drift back into view once you stop moving.

Field ethics

Keep back from nest boxes in spring, and never tap on or open them.

Where to look

Tennant LakeWhatcom County · Peaks in April
Stimpson Family Nature ReserveWhatcom County · Peaks in April
South Fork Valley at SaxonWhatcom County · Peaks in April
Barrell Springs WetlandsSkagit County · Peaks in April