Managing standing water habitats, such as wetlands and shallow impoundments, is an effective way to attract and sustain migratory and resident waterfowl. The foundation of a productive duck habitat is the presence of high-quality, preferred native vegetation. Planting the right species ensures a consistent and energy-rich food supply, which is a major factor in drawing ducks to an area. A well-managed planted wetland also provides necessary cover for security, loafing, and successful nesting. Landowners and habitat managers should focus on creating a diverse, natural buffet to meet the varying dietary needs of different duck species throughout the year.
Understanding Aquatic Plant Types for Waterfowl
Aquatic plants are generally categorized by where they anchor and grow in the water column, a distinction that directly influences how ducks utilize them. Understanding this framework helps in selecting a diverse mix of species for habitat enhancement.
Submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) grows entirely beneath the water surface, providing an underwater forage base. Ducks consume the leafy material, but the most valuable parts are the seeds and nutrient-dense tubers. SAV also supports aquatic invertebrates, which are a highly valuable protein source, especially for breeding hens and developing ducklings.
Emergent plants are rooted in the submerged soil but grow upward, extending above the water line. These species, often called moist-soil plants, are the primary source of high-energy seeds sought by dabbling ducks. They also offer overhead cover from predators, secluded loafing spots, and stable structure for nesting sites.
The third category includes free-floating plants, which drift on the water’s surface. These tiny plants, such as duckweed and watermeal, are known for their extremely high protein content. They are easily accessible to waterfowl, providing a quick source of nutrition, though their rapid growth may require management.
High-Value Plant Species for Duck Forage
Successful waterfowl management involves selecting high-value species. Among the emergent species, smartweeds (Polygonum spp.) are highly favored due to their abundant production of small, nutritious seeds. These annual plants are a staple in the diet of many duck species and thrive in areas that are seasonally flooded.
Japanese millet (Echinochloa crus-galli) is a favored annual grass for dabbling ducks. It matures quickly, providing an excellent source of carbohydrates. Its seeds are easily accessible in shallow, flooded areas, making it a reliable food source during migration periods.
Wild rice (Zizania spp.) is a native aquatic plant that flourishes in standing water of moderate depth. It produces nutritious seeds highly attractive to ducks and provides excellent overhead cover. Certain sedges (Carex spp.) are also valuable perennial emergent plants, offering seeds and tubers that remain available throughout the colder months.
For submerged vegetation, wild celery (Vallisneria americana) is a highly prized native species. Its roots and shoots are a preferred food for diving ducks like the canvasback. Coontail (Ceratophyllum demersum) is another submerged plant that offers both food and invertebrate habitat, and it is highly tolerant of murky water.
Among the floating plants, duckweed (Lemna spp.) is an important source of high-protein forage. It is particularly beneficial for ducks fueling up for migration or reproduction. Duckweed is a dense and readily available food source.
Successful Establishment and Water Management
Establishing waterfowl forage relies heavily on precise water level manipulation, often termed moist-soil management. The annual cycle begins with a controlled drawdown, exposing the mudflats during the late spring or early summer growing season. This exposure is necessary for the germination of desirable annual emergent species like smartweed and millet.
Planting occurs by broadcasting seeds directly onto the moist soil once the seedbed is exposed. For perennial species, such as wild rice or submerged plants, planting tubers or rootstock into the mud provides a more reliable establishment method. Protecting newly established plants from grazing may require temporary protective fencing until the plants are fully mature.
The re-flooding of the area should be timed to coincide with the arrival of migrating waterfowl in the fall. The water depth should be kept shallow, generally ten inches or less, as this depth range is preferred by dabbling ducks for foraging access. Controlled flooding ensures the food source is accessible while preventing rapid decomposition.
Managers should conduct periodic soil disturbance, such as disking or prescribed burning, every two to three years. This action helps control the encroachment of undesirable woody vegetation and encourages the continued germination of high-value annual forage plants. Careful monitoring of invasive species is also necessary, and aquatic-approved herbicides may be selectively used to prevent competition.