Wood Duck Box Installation

Last week I was assisted by some dedicated wildlife students installing a wood duck box in one of the vernal pools behind T.A. During our trips outside to monitor amphibian reproduction last spring, we would regularly observe wood ducks (Aix sponsa) feeding and resting in this hidden wetland. Wood ducks are one of the most common freshwater duck species in Maine but few residents are ever lucky enough to see them. They are extremely secretive and prefer hidden marshes and wooded swamps. More often than not, only a fleeting glimpse is allowed of these beautiful waterfowl as they hide or flush immediately once they become aware of human intrusion. Wood ducks are one of several species of cavity nesting ducks native to Maine. This means that they utilize holes in hollow trees for nest sites. Wood duck numbers dipped extremely low during the early to mid 1900's due to overhunting and deforestation that removed many of their natural nest sites. The introduction of wood duck boxes is seen as a major conservation success story and is thought to be one of the leading factors in their recovery.

Winter is the best time to install a new box as the frozen pond provides a sturdy platform to work from. With the help of Jake, Rachel, Sarah, and Victoria, we were able to have everything ready to go in less than an hour.

Picking out the perfect location.

Mounting the box to the pole.

Wood shavings are used at the bottom to help with insulation and provide a base for the hen to build her downy nest. Note the grooves cut in the front wall to aid the ducklings in their climb to the entrance.

The final product. A predator guard was placed on the post to keep raccoons, minks, and squirrels from raiding a future nest.

We plan to use a game camera to monitor the box once the wood ducks begin to arrive this spring and are hopeful that they choose to take up residence. This setup could support any cavity nesting bird however. It will be interesting to see if anything uses the box this year. 

Special thanks to my father in law, Pete Albert, for building us a perfect wood duck box and Allie Hanright for photographing the project.