Courtesy Northsong
Wild Bird Rehabilitation
Waterfowl are a very common
group of wild birds in Northwest
Arkansas. The term waterfowl
includes ducks, geese and swans.
Waterfowl are found all over the
world, but many share the common
characteristics of webbed feet, longer
necks and round bodies.
Waterfowl are often found near bodies of
water including lakes, ponds and wetlands.
They will usually nest in these areas,
raising their families around the water and
surrounding ecosystems. Many species
of waterfowl, such as the mallard duck,
migrate. This means they fly from one place
to another, often based on the season.
For example, certain wild birds that live up
North may not be suited for the freezing
winters, so they will migrate south during
the cold months and then back north when
it is warm. Would you migrate during the
summer or winter if you had the chance?
Where would you migrate to?
Waterfowl usually feed on plants and
animals that live near the water, such as
fish, crawfish and other invertebrates.
Some waterfowl dive down deep to catch
their prey, while others dabble or prefer
the shallow zones. Many species of
waterfowl also have unique bills that
are made to filter water while searching
for food. These birds have comb-like
structures in their bills that allow the water
to pass through while trapping tasty snacks
inside. How neat!
Birds also have an oil gland at the base of
their tail that is responsible for producing
the oil that waterproofs feathers. If you have
ever seen a bird spin its head around, rub its
bill in its tail, and then rub its bill on other
parts of its body, it is likely preening and
applying oil to its feathers. The oil gland in
waterfowl species is especially important, as
these birds must securely waterproof their
feathers or they wouldn't be unable to fly or
function correctly. Next time you are near
water, spend some time watching waterfowl
and see if you can catch them searching for
food or preening!
Photos by Quin Warsaw
How would a
goose know how
to bake a cake?
They would
just wing it!
What is a duck's
favorite food?
Soup and
quackers
What ballet did
the group of
ducklings attend
together?
The
NutQuacker
GOOSE! GOOSE!
duck, duck,
Duck, Duck,
"Best Friends"
... make thE
4363 W Wedington Dr. • Fayetteville • 479-444-6600
www.WedingtonAnimalHospital.com
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"Best Friends"
26 • AUGUST 2023 • www.Of f icialKidsMag.com
