The Parts of a Duck

You might hear a group of ducks quacking, but ducks are docile creatures that don't often disturb other animals. They also are examples of evolutionary adaptation. Each part of a duck is suited for a purpose, from its wings and head to its feathers and tail.

  1. Head

    • A duck has great vision and can see 360 degrees with two eyes on both sides of its head. A duck has no tear ducts though, so it must moisten its eyes by bathing.

    Bill and Nostrils

    • The duck's wide bill allows it to dredge soil in an aquatic environment. It also enables it to find insects and drink water with ease.The bill has a layer of keratin, which is replenished continually. A duck's nostrils, located on the bill near its head, allow it to find food without having to hold its breath underwater.

    Tail and Wings

    • Tail markings of a duck are indications of its gender. Curly tail feathers indicate a male duck while straight trail feathers represent a female. The wings of a duck are designed perfectly to fly long distances. These wings are strong and aerodynamic.

    Feathers

    • Feathers on a duck are kept in place by constant maintenance. A duck secretes oil from a gland by its tail, and coats its feathers with the oil. This helps to deflect water while swimming.The feathers also have a layer of down underneath that helps insulate the duck from cold.

    Feet

    • The feet are perhaps the most well known attribute of a duck. The webbing between the toes allows ducks to maneuver quickly through water to escape predators and find food. Duck feet have small nails on the end of every toe.