Range.—Breeds from Ill. and Iowa northward; winters in southern half of the U. S.
WOOD DUCK
144. Aix sponsa. 19 in.
Head crested in both sexes, the feathers being especially lengthened on the nape. No other American duck that can possibly be mistaken for them. The male Wood Duck is the most beautiful of the family, in this or any other country, its only rival being the gaily colored Mandarin, of China. In summer, they may be found about the edges of clear ponds or lakes, especially those located in woods remote from human habitations. They are very local in their distribution and only one or two pairs will be found in a locality. In most parts of their range they are rapidly diminishing in numbers.
Notes.—A soft whistled “peet, peet” and a squawky danger-note like “hoo-eek, hoo-eek.”
Nest.—In the hollow of a tree usually near the water’s edge. The bottom is lined with soft downy feathers, and 8 to 15 buffy eggs are laid (2.00 × 1.50).
Range.—Whole of the United States and southern Canada, breeding locally throughout the range. Winters in southern half of the U. S.
