Ducks do not lay their eggs in water; instead, they build nests on land, typically in sheltered areas close to water sources. This terrestrial nesting behavior is a fundamental aspect of their reproductive strategy, ensuring the safety and development of their offspring.
Typical Duck Nesting Sites
Ducks select nesting sites that offer concealment and protection, often near freshwater bodies like ponds, lakes, or slow-moving streams. Common locations include dense vegetation, such as tall grasses, reeds, or shrubs, which provide natural camouflage for the nesting hen and her clutch. Some species may also use unconventional spots such as planter boxes, hollow logs, or even cavities in trees or banks, especially if natural wetlands are scarce.
A duck nest involves a shallow ground depression, lined with plant debris, grasses, and leaves. As egg-laying progresses and incubation begins, the mother plucks downy feathers from her breast to further insulate and conceal the eggs, forming a soft, warm cup. Nests are usually about a foot in diameter and hold a clutch of up to 13 eggs.
Why Ducks Avoid Laying Eggs in Water
Ducks avoid laying eggs directly in water due to factors compromising egg viability. Water lacks the stable temperature conditions necessary for successful incubation, as fluctuating temperatures can harm the developing embryo. Additionally, eggs in water would be highly vulnerable to aquatic predators like fish, snapping turtles, or even other birds.
Water also risks compromising the egg’s porous shell. While designed for essential gas exchange, the shell has a protective outer layer called the bloom. If submerged, water can seep through pores, introducing bacteria that cause spoilage or hindering vital oxygen exchange required for embryo development. Furthermore, eggs in water could be swept away by currents or damaged by movement, preventing consistent incubation and protection.
The Critical Role of Terrestrial Nesting for Egg Development
The land-based nest provides ideal conditions for the successful duck egg development and hatching. A stable, dry, and protected environment allows the parent duck to maintain consistent incubation temperature, which is essential for embryonic growth. The hen develops a brood patch, a bare belly area with increased blood flow, directly transferring warmth to the eggs. This contact ensures eggs receive the precise heat needed for cell division and development.
The terrestrial nest also offers protection from environmental elements and many predators, allowing the hen to sit on her eggs for the majority of the incubation period, typically 25-29 days. This consistent incubation allows ducklings to develop and hatch at roughly the same time, which is important for the mother to lead her brood collectively to water. Once hatched, the land nest provides a safe, accessible platform for ducklings to dry and gain strength before being led to water.