Distribution

Breeds from eastern Canada west to Manitoba and south to Florida, Texas and the Gulf of Mexico. Breeds in west from Montana and Washington to southern California. Winters from Massachusetts, southern Ontario and Wisconsin to Florida, Gulf of Mexico and Cuba.

Habitat

Wooded swamps, rivers, lakes, ponds.

Nesting

Tree cavities lined with fine wood chips. Will use artificial nest boxes.

North American Status

Wood Duck populations are stable or increasing. The Breeding Bird Survey shows a 6.0% annual population increase between 1966-1996 across the United States.

Status and Conservation

Wood Duck comprises greater than 10% of hunted waterfowl, second only Mallard. Protection and restoration of forested wetland habitat should maintain populations at current healthy levels.