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5

Ducks, Geese, and Swans

Marjorie Cahak Gibson

Natural History

Ducks, geese, and swans are well known in every part of the world and have a long history of
association with humans. They often are the subject of literature, music, and art of all forms, and
are an intimate part of human culture (Stromberg 1986). From ancient writings, to Shakespeare’s
sonnets, to children’s literature, references to these magnificent birds that both fly and swim hold
a unique place in our lives (Price 1994). Several species of geese and ducks have been domesticated
and bred as farm flocks. Some are legally hunted during certain seasons.
Order Anseriformes, family Anatidae, includes 154 species of swans, geese, true ducks, and
whistling ducks. The group is commonly referred to in North America as “waterfowl” and “wild-
fowl” in Britain (Weller 2001). Species vary dramatically in size, posture, plumage, diet, and
breeding habits. Adult body weights range from 0.5–30 lb (230 g to 14 kg).
Members of the Order Anseriformes are easily recognized as waterfowl even when newly
hatched. Young are down‐covered and leave the nest immediately or within a few days of hatching
(Figure 5.1). Many species share similarities of structure and form, including large heads, horizon-
tally flattened blunt beaks, long necks, heavy bodies, and webbed feet (Altman et al. 1997; Weller
2001). Smaller species fledge in 6 weeks; the larger ones do not fledge for 10–12 weeks. There is
great diversity in natural history and diet, and therefore substantial variation in the way these
species are cared for as patients in a captive state.
Waterfowl live in aquatic habitats that include lakes, streams, rivers, oceans, and estuaries. In
recent years, several species have shown great adaptability of nesting habitat, expanding their ter-
ritories into highly urban areas. This adaptability comes with mixed success. A generation ago,
urban nesting ducks and geese were rare and generally regarded with fond curiosity. As urban
nesting increased, public opinion gradually reflected less fondness, and more concern for sanita-
tion and inconvenience (Erickson 2006). Accommodating territorial adults near a nest site becomes
annoying and downright risky. Many species of waterfowl, including swans, have become comfort-
able with the manicured landscaping of corporate campuses or other urban sites. This is particu-
larly so when landscaping includes a lake or other water elements designed to replicate nature.
Rehabilitators become involved when nesting sites are placed too near humans, an adult becomes
territorial, or when young have hatched within enclosed courtyards or similar areas that have no
foot access to natural habitat.

Hand-Rearing Birds, Second Edition. Edited by Rebecca S. Duerr and Laurie J. Gage.
© 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Published 2020 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.