Waterfowl (Order Anseriformes) include ducks, swans, geese, and screamers. Members of this order inhabit aquatic habitats such as swamps, rivers, lakes, streams, and ponds. Anseriformes grow to weights of between 1 kg and 22 kg and lengths ranging from 30 to 180 cm. Thier plummage coloration varies depending on season, sex, species, and maturity and may be black, white, gray or brown. Some species have brightly colored patches on their secondary feathers (such as blue, green, or copper).
The predators that feed on waterfowl include owls, crows, skuas, skunks, racoons, humans, fox, and coyotes. Anseriforms eat vegetation such as aquatic plants, leaves, flowers, and roots. Occassionally the may also eat mollusks, fish, or insects. Some species are migratory.
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Where to See:
Ducks, geese and swans have a worldwide distribution. Screamers inhabit South America. The magpie goose is found in Australia and whistling ducks occur in Pantropical regions.
References:
- Burnie D, Wilson DE. 2001. Animal. London: Dorling Kindersley. 624 p.
- Gill F. 1990. Ornithology. New York: WH Freeman and Company. 660 p.
