Ducks are common and widespread birds inhabiting diverse environments, from freshwater ponds and lakes to coastal marshes and rivers. These adaptable birds play a role in various ecosystems, contributing to biodiversity. Occupying a position in the food chain, ducks naturally face the reality of predation, which is an integral process within their habitats.
Land-Based Hunters
A variety of terrestrial predators actively hunt ducks. Red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) frequently ambush ducks near water bodies or raid nests for eggs and vulnerable ducklings. Coyotes (Canis latrans) also target ducks, often using their senses to hunt adult birds.
Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are opportunistic predators that patrol shorelines, primarily preying on duck eggs and young ducklings found in nests. Raccoons are nocturnal and use their dexterity to access nests.
Other smaller mammals, such as skunks (Mephitis mephitis) and weasels (Mustela spp.), also contribute to duck predation by raiding nests for eggs and occasionally catching unattended ducklings. Minks (Neovison vison), semi-aquatic members of the weasel family, are effective hunters around water, capable of pursuing ducks both on land and in shallow water. Domestic dogs and cats, when allowed to roam freely, can also become significant predators of ducks, especially where human habitation overlaps with duck habitats.
Aerial Hunters
Birds of prey represent a significant threat to ducks from above. Bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), with their powerful talons and impressive wingspan, snatch ducks directly from the water’s surface or pursue them in flight. While they primarily feed on fish, bald eagles are opportunistic and will take ducks.
Golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) also hunt ducks when opportunities arise. Various hawk species, such as the Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) and Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), can prey on ducks, especially smaller species or ducklings. Northern Goshawks are known to take a wide variety of birds, including ducks. Red-tailed Hawks are opportunistic and will take ducklings.
Larger owls, including the Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus), hunt ducks primarily during twilight hours or at night, taking advantage of the ducks’ reduced visibility. These nocturnal predators employ silent flight and powerful talons to capture ducks from roosting sites or when they are on the water.
Aquatic Hunters
Predators residing in or near water also pose a considerable threat to ducks. Large predatory fish, such as northern pike (Esox lucius), are known to consume ducklings. These fish often lurk beneath the surface, ambushing unsuspecting ducks swimming overhead and pulling them underwater.
Snapping turtles (Chelydra serpentina) are opportunistic aquatic predators that can grab ducklings or even adult ducks by their legs and drown them. Snapping turtles can also prey on duck eggs, especially if nests are located near the water’s edge.
In regions with suitable climates, apex aquatic predators like alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) and crocodiles (Crocodylidae) are formidable hunters of ducks. These reptiles typically lie submerged, waiting for ducks to come within striking distance near the water’s edge or while swimming. They employ a sudden, powerful lunge to seize their prey, pulling it below the surface. These aquatic hunters rely on stealth and the element of surprise, making the water environment a hazardous place for ducks.