There are a couple of different ponds that I frequent in my area throughout the year. The ponds have an accumulation of ducks, geese, wading birds, and others birds like raptors and ravens. Ponds are a great place to watch the behaviors and learn about birds. They are fun places to walk and to take kids as well. The species vary at different times of year and during migration season. On my last visit, I saw mallards, northern shovelers, snow geese, Canada geese, American coots, and a bald eagle. Here’s a little information and a picture of each.

Mallards are probably the most frequently seen species of duck. They are dabblers, which means they feed at the surface of water by dipping their bills in the water or by upending to reach deeper, they rarely dive.

Northern shovelers are also dabbling ducks. They have very long and broad bills that they use to feed on plankton and seeds gathered from the water surface by straining with its bill.

 

 

 

 

 

A Canada goose is the most widespread goose in North America. They are commonly found in flocks grazing on land, usually close to water. They flock in a well-defined V formation, they “honk” loudly.

 

 

 

 

 

 

An American coot is considered a rail, not a duck. They are found on ponds and in marshes. They either dive for aquatic vegetation or graze on grass. They have lobed toes.

The bald eagle is widespread and can be found in many habitats including water areas, mountains, and open spaces. They have a distinct white head and tail with a massive yellow bill and talons. The male and females look alike, except the females are usually larger.