Duck Facts
A duck is a waterbird in the family Anatidae, usually smaller and shorter in the neck than its relatives, the swans and geese.
- Class
- Bird
About the duck
Ducks live on every continent but Antarctica and turn up on remote islands such as Hawaii and the Galápagos. Fresh water and salt water both work for them. Many species breeding in the northern temperate zone and the Arctic migrate, while tropical ducks mostly stay put, and some Australian ducks wander to temporary pools after heavy rain.
Feeding style splits them into groups. Dabbling ducks feed at the surface or tip upside down to reach deeper, while diving ducks go under, and sea ducks hunt fish and shellfish in salt water. The diet can include grasses, water plants, insects, worms, small fish and mollusks. A broad bill lined with comb-like edges helps filter food. Many males wear showy feathers, then molt into a duller, female-like look in summer.
Did you know?
- Three kinds of steamer duck can barely fly at all.
- Many ducks cannot fly for a while during their molt, so they hide in sheltered spots.
- Loons, grebes and coots are often mistaken for ducks, but they are not related.
Questions about the duck
Where do ducks live?
On every continent except Antarctica, in both fresh water and seawater, including some far-flung ocean islands.
What do ducks eat?
It depends on the species: plants such as grasses, plus insects, worms, fish, small amphibians and small mollusks.
Sources
- Wikidata Q3736439, checked October 8, 2026
- Wikipedia: Duck, checked October 8, 2026
Facts are compiled from these open sources and rewritten in our own words. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.