- Coyotes: Coyotes are known to prey on small animals, including ducks. They are opportunistic predators that will take advantage of any easy meal they can find.
- Foxes: Foxes are another common predator of ducks. They are also opportunistic predators that will hunt ducks for food.
- Raccoons: Raccoons are omnivores that will eat a variety of foods, including ducks. They are also known to raid duck nests and eat the eggs.
- Opossums: Opossums are not as common predators of ducks as the other animals on this list, but they will occasionally kill and eat ducks.
- Snakes: Some snakes, such as the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, are known to prey on ducks.
- Birds of Prey: Birds of prey such as hawks, owls, and eagles can also kill and eat ducks.
Signs that a duck has been killed by a predator:
- The body may be partially eaten.
- The feathers may be ruffled or missing.
- The eyes may be pecked out.
- The body may be found near a predator's den or nest.
If you find a dead duck that you believe has been killed by a predator, it is important to remove the body from the area to avoid attracting other predators. You should also contact your local animal control agency to report the incident.