Collection: Wood Duck

One of the most striking water birds, this "dabbler" feeds on the surface of lakes and ponds. What's really cool is that they nest in holes in trees and even have claws for holding on to wood and branches.  Strong demand for the Wood Duck's feathers in the late 19th century led to their decline but the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 really helped them out and they have been on the rebound ever since. This duck is the second most commonly hunted duck in the US, just behind the ubiquitous Mallard.