In a world turned upside down by COVID-19, the ducks return

In a world turned upside down by COVID-19, the ducks return
Migratory waterfowl are returning to the Northwest Corner, a herald of the arrival of spring weather. Look for wood ducks, such as this lone male. Photo by Michael Moschen

Previews of spring have been unveiling themselves through the steady arrival of migratory waterfowl species, particularly ducks, that are moving northward toward Canada and Alaska to breed.

Diving ducks such as Common Mergansers and Ring-necked Ducks can be readily spotted on freshwater bodies in the area, though Ring-necked ducks tend to prefer more sheltered ponds or lakes that are bordered by forest. Look for either species in small or large groups.

Common Merganser males are bright white, with dark green heads sporting a ragged crest, and pointed red bills, while the females have gray bodies and rust-colored heads.

Ring-necked Duck males have dark heads, necks and backs, with gray sides, while females are a more subtle mix of gray and brown.

Note that the ring on the neck of Ring-necked Ducks is almost never visible, but luckily their bills also have distinctive white “rings” at the base and the tip that differentiate the Ring-neck from the similar Lesser Scaup (also a northbound migrant) that has a solid-colored bill.

Various species of dabbling ducks are also moving north, with the brilliantly colored chestnut and emerald head of the male Green-winged Teal a delight to observe in marshes or shallow water bodies.

In addition to the migrants passing through, some resident ducks have arrived to breed here. Wood ducks are selecting mates and beginning to scout out nest sites in riparian tree cavities and nest boxes. You may have stumbled upon a pair along a pond’s edge and heard the distinctive “oowheak!” from the female as the pair frantically flew away. This species startles more easily than others, so approach with caution for closer observations if you don’t have binoculars.

Additionally, keep an eye out for the unmistakable male Hooded Mergansers, a resident diving duck, whose magnificent black and white crest captures the interest of both beginner birders and seasoned ones alike.       

Now is an undoubtedly exciting time to brush up on your waterfowl identification or learn a new bird, so consider making time to go explore your nearby ponds, lakes or rivers!

 

Bethany Sheffer is the naturalist at Sharon Aubudon.

The views expressed here are not necessarily those of The Lakeville Journal and The Journal does not support or oppose candidates for public office.

Latest News

Wake Robin public hearing closes

Aradev LLC’s plans to redevelop Wake Robin Inn include four 2,000-square-foot cabins, an event space, a sit-down restaurant and fast-casual counter, a spa, library, lounge, gym and seasonal pool. If approved, guest room numbers would increase from 38 to 57.

Provided

LAKEVILLE — The public hearing for the redevelopment of Wake Robin Inn is over. Salisbury Planning and Zoning Commission now has two months to make a decision.

The hearing closed on Tuesday, Sept. 9, after its seventh session.

Keep ReadingShow less
Judith Marie Drury

COPAKE — Judith Marie “Judy” Drury, 76, a four-year resident of Copake, New York, formerly of Millerton, New York, died peacefully on Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025, at Vassar Bros. Medical Center in Poughkeepsie, New York, surrounded by her loving family and her Lord and savior Jesus Christ. Judy worked as a therapy aide for Taconic DDSO in Wassaic, New York, prior to her retirement on Feb. 1, 2004. She then went on to work in the Housekeeping Department at Vassar Bros. Medical Center for several years.

Born Jan. 2, 1949, in Richford, Vermont, she was the daughter of the late Leo J. and Marie A. (Bean) Martel. She attended Roeliff Jansen Central School in Columbia County, New York, in her early years. Judy was an avid sports fan and she was particularly fond of the New England Patriots football team and the New York Rangers hockey team. She enjoyed spending time with her family and traveling to Florida, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Pennsylvania for many years. She was a longtime parishioner of Faith Bible Chapel of Shekomeko on Silver Mountain in Millerton as well.

Keep ReadingShow less
Jeremy Dakin

AMESVILLE — Jeremy Dakin, 78, passed away Aug. 31, 2025, at Vassar Brothers Medical Center after a long battle with COPD and other ailments.

Jeremy was a dear friend to many, and a fixture of the Amesville community. There will be a service in his memory at Trinity Lime Rock Episcopal Church on Sept. 27 at 11 a.m.

Keep ReadingShow less