This week, Jackie Edmunds of the Dane County Humane Society Wildlife Center reports on the duck species of Wisconsin, explaining how to tell the difference between duckling species. The most common ducks in the Madison area are Mallards, which are herbivores, and Wood Ducks, which are insectivores.
She tells us about the basics of Mallard ducklings, specifically, how many babies are hatched at once, ranging from nine to as high as twelve. In short, if you see a lone duckling, it is most likely separated from its family and needs help.
Nesting in rough or unnatural terrain and crossing roads are just a few ways ducks may become separated from their families. Ducks have been known to nest on top of buildings in downtown Madison. These families often need human help to guide them to safer ground — through the building, down the stairs, or even by using the elevator!
Another potential danger for ducklings is the likelihood of falling down a sewer drain. This problem can be resolved by calling local animal services at (608) 255-2345.
The Wildlife Center is willing to take any separated ducklings, meaning any duckling without a parent. They can be alone or in a small group, and if a parent doesn’t attend to them within an hour, they are likely abandoned. For help rescuing separated ducklings, the Wildlife Center is available at (608)287-3235.
