Ducks - Birds

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Ducks belong to the family Anatidae along with swans and geese. There is still no definite agreement on the evolution of ducks and the number of species included. It is believed that tree ducks, also referred to as whistling ducks, make up a separate subfamily. The Tree ducks' physical attributes make one believe that they are more closely related to geese and swans rather than to the so called true ducks. In North America, there are four subfamilies of large ducks. They are dabbling (puddle) ducks, diving (bray) ducks, sea ducks, and stiff-tail ducks.

Source:
Alison Fisher

Ducks - Birds - Appearance

Sexes differ greatly in coloration. As a rule, male ducks have a striking appearance. They are brightly colored. Females, on the contrary, are dull in appearance. The female duck has gray and brown features. Bright coloration is very important for males. It serves as an indication of their physical condition and attracts females during the breeding season. Just the other way around, bright coloration may be lethal for females. It attracts predators during the nesting period and can lead to the damage of the newly hatched ducks.

Coloration differences between sexes are most striking in mallards. It is very easy to distinguish a male from a female by the features. However, mallards are not the most brightly colored ducks. Wood ducks are considered one of the most wonderful sights of the duck world. They are a real attraction in the wild.

Coloration also differs depending on the age of the animal. Immature ducks tend to have a duller coloration. Males are likely to have greater changes in plumage. The breeding plumage is also referred to as eclipse. Female ducks have less visible plumage changes.