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What is a Gadwall?

R. Britton
R. Britton

A gadwall is a medium sized migratory duck reaching a length of about 23 inches (57 centimeters) and a wingspan of approximately 35 inches (90 centimeters). Its native range covers Europe, Asia, the United States, and Canada. Often called a gray mallard because of its similar appearance, the gadwall is roughly the same size as a mallard, but has mainly dull gray plumage.

With a gray back, the gadwall has a white underside. Males have a black patch on the underside, close to the tail, with a gray to dull blue beak. Females have a yellow beak and tend to be a pale tan brown and gray. Females do not have the black patch near the tail and have a uniform white underside.

Veterinarian with a puppy
Veterinarian with a puppy

The gadwall molts twice yearly; during this time the duck is unable to fly, making it extremely vulnerable to predators. When possible during molting time, this species remains on bodies of freshwater, staying as far as possible from the shore. This is a strategic maneuver to avoid predators.

For most of the year, the primary diet of the gadwall consists of seeds, grains, algae, and green plant matter. In the lead up to breeding season, females begin to consume large amounts of fat and protein based foods such as invertebrates, insects, small fish, and tadpoles. This is because the female must build up large fat and protein reserves; when egg laying and incubation begins, she will rarely leave the nest.

Nests are built in sheltered depressions on the ground, close to freshwater. Between one and seven eggs are laid and take around four weeks to hatch. Males rarely participate in incubating or rearing the young. Juveniles are independent in snout 10 weeks after hatching. It takes up to two years for the gadwall to reach sexual maturity, and begin to breed.

Gadwalls are generally active only during the day except when migrating. This species will only fly at night while migrating, although the reasons for this are unclear. Both in the wintering grounds and the summer breeding grounds, the gadwall tends to live on or near marsh land, ponds, and small lakes, preferring still or slow moving waters.

Like any medium sized duck, the gadwall has a wide variety of predators, from domestic cats and dogs to foxes, coyotes, and large, predatory birds. Humans are also a threat to this species. Humans have hunted this species for both food and sport for many centuries. These birds are not considered endangered, however, because they have a large native range and can raise several clutches of eggs per year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Gadwall?

A Gadwall is a medium-sized, dabbling duck that is native to North America and Eurasia. Males have a subtle pattern of brown, gray, and black, while females are mottled brown. They are known for their quiet nature and distinctive mating calls. Gadwalls frequent marshes and wetlands, feeding on aquatic vegetation and invertebrates.

How can you identify a Gadwall?

Gadwalls can be identified by their understated plumage and the black rear end visible in flight. Males have a sleek gray body, black rear, and a chestnut-brown patch on their wings, while females are mottled brown with an orange-edged bill. Their silhouette resembles a Mallard, but they are slightly smaller and have a more slender bill.

What does a Gadwall's diet consist of?

Gadwalls primarily feed on aquatic plants, seeds, and roots, which they obtain by dabbling at the water's surface or tipping up their bodies to reach deeper vegetation. They also consume small aquatic animals like insects and crustaceans. Their diet varies seasonally, depending on the availability of food sources.

Where do Gadwalls breed and what is their nesting behavior?

Gadwalls breed in the prairie potholes of North America and in similar habitats across Eurasia. They prefer shallow wetlands with abundant vegetation. Females build nests on the ground, concealed in dense vegetation near water, and lay 7-12 eggs. The female incubates the eggs and raises the ducklings alone, as males typically leave before the eggs hatch.

Are Gadwalls migratory?

Yes, Gadwalls are migratory birds. They breed in northern areas and migrate south for the winter. Their migration patterns depend on weather conditions and food availability. In North America, they can be found wintering along the coasts and in the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America.

What is the conservation status of the Gadwall?

The Gadwall is currently listed as "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Their population has been stable and even increasing in some areas, thanks to conservation efforts and wetland protection. However, they still face threats from habitat loss and degradation, making continued conservation important.

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    • Veterinarian with a puppy
      Veterinarian with a puppy