Ducks

Ducks are birds that love the water. They have webbed feet that help them swim fast. Their flat bills help them grab food from ponds and lakes. Ducks live almost everywhere there is water.

Swimming and Floating

Ducks have oily feathers that keep water from soaking in. This is why water just rolls right off their backs. They paddle with their webbed feet and dip their heads underwater to find food. Ducks can also fly long distances.

Two Pacific black ducks swimming together.
Two Pacific black ducks swimming together. (Waylah / Wikimedia Commons)

Ducklings

Baby ducks are called ducklings. They hatch from eggs and can swim right away. Ducklings follow their mother in a line. She teaches them how to find food and stay safe.

Fun Facts

  • A duck's quack does not echo, and no one knows exactly why.
  • Male ducks are called drakes.
  • Ducks can sleep with one eye open to watch for danger.

Did You Know?

Some ducks can fly over 300 miles in a single day during migration.