Diurnal Behavior: Freckled ducks are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day. They typically feed and engage in other activities during daylight hours and rest at night.
Gregariousness: Freckled ducks are known to be quite social birds and often form large flocks, especially during migration and in their wintering grounds. They can be found in groups ranging from a few individuals to several hundred or even thousands during peak migration periods.
Migratory Behavior: Freckled ducks are migratory birds, moving between their breeding and non-breeding ranges. They breed in the northern regions of North America and then migrate south for the winter, primarily to the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America.
Pair Formation and Breeding: During the breeding season, freckled ducks form monogamous pairs. Males engage in courtship displays, such as bowing, spreading their wings, and calling to attract females. Once paired, they select suitable nesting sites, usually in secluded areas near water bodies, and build simple nests on the ground.
Feeding Behavior: Freckled ducks are omnivorous and have a varied diet. They feed on a wide range of aquatic plants and insects, as well as small fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and other invertebrates. They may also occasionally feed on seeds and fruits. They forage by swimming and dabbling at the water's surface or by diving and foraging underwater.
Vocalizations: Freckled ducks produce various vocalizations, including soft whistles, quacks, and grunts. These vocalizations serve different purposes, such as maintaining contact within the flock, attracting mates, and defending their territories during the breeding season.
Habitat Preferences: Freckled ducks prefer freshwater habitats, including marshes, shallow ponds, lakes, rivers, and estuaries. They are often found in areas with abundant aquatic vegetation, where they can find shelter, nesting sites, and food resources.
Migration Patterns: Freckled ducks typically start their northward migration in early spring and arrive at their breeding grounds by April or May. They begin their southward migration in late summer or early fall, usually reaching their wintering grounds by October. Their migratory routes can vary based on the specific population and environmental conditions.