DUCKS, GEESE AND 
SWANS 
The members of this group are perhaps the most familiar of all aquatic 
birds. Ducks and geese have long been regarded as a highly delectable dish, 
and swans have ever been prized for their aesthetic appeal. 
The ease and grace with which these birds glide upon the water is a 
matter of common observation. The three front toes are completely webbed, 
and the short legs drive these paddles with powerful strokes. The phrase 
“like water off a duck’s back” is well founded, for ducks’ plumage is dense 
and is made impervious to water by oil from a gland near the tail. These 
birds are swift and tireless fliers. During the period of migration their 
flying wedges or long wavy lines rival the formation precision of a squadron 
of fighting planes. But on land the gait of these graceful creatures is hardly 
more than an awkward wobble. 
A particularly useful adaptation of this group is the sieve-like bill. 
When a mouthful of mud and vegetation is taken up, the mud and water 
drain through the comb-like openings lining the bill. 
Geese and swans are faithful mates and pair through life, sharing 
parental responsibility for nearly a year after the young are hatched. The 
male duck, however, is irresponsible and will often leave his mate and 
ducklings to shift for themselves. 
Geese and swans are noted for their long lives. A domestic goose 
attained the age of eighty years and a mute swan, seventy. 
Related to ducks, geese and swans, are the screamers, swamp-living 
birds of southern South America. 
Ducks: Mallard Duck. 
Geese: Canada Geese. 
Swans: Mute Swans. 
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