Ohio’s proximity to the Great Lakes, and it’s position along migratory routes, means that the state is full of all kinds of waterfowl. These birds popular with birdwatchers and hunters for their beautiful plumage as well as the beauty of the environments they’re typically found in. This article is all about the ducks in Ohio.
Ducks in Ohio
Ohio is home to at least 18 duck species. Some are here during the breeding season only, while others live here year-round. Below is a list of 18 Ohio ducks that we were able to confirm to at least be part-time residents to the state.
1. Green-winged Teal
Length: 12.2-15.3 inches
Weight: 4.9-17.6oz
Wingspan: 20.5-23.2 inches
The smallest of dabbling ducks in Ohio and North America, the green-winged teal can be found in Ohio every fall and spring as they migrate between their breeding grounds and their wintering grounds. These fast flying birds will pass through the state quickly, so birdwatchers should keep a close eye on the skies during migration season if they want to spot them.
Males have a brown head with a dark green patch surrounding the eye. Females are mottled brown, but usually slightly darker brown than other “dabbling” ducks.
2. Blue-winged Teal
Length: 15 inches
Weight: 1 pound
Wingspan: 23 inches
Blue-winged teals migrate south earlier than most species, as they’re very sensitive to cold weather. They favor small lakes and back bays. They’ll begin to migrate south at the end of September, and some travel as far as Colombia.
In Ohio, there’s a small sliver of land along the shores of Lake Erie that falls within their breeding range, but in most of the state you’ll only see them as they migrate. Males sport a dark head with a large white crescent in front of their eye, and a light blue patch on their upper wing. Females are mostly mottled brown.
3. Mallard
