294 
Summary 
1. Early season populations were higher in 1952 than in 1951, because 
of heavy rains which created additional feeding and resting places. 
2. The number of young waterfowl produced was greater in 1952, 
although average brood size was smaller than in 1951. 
3. Probable cause for smaller broods but higher total production: 
More habitat available in early season resulted in more nesting 
waterfowl. Severe drought in late season resulted in either 
(1) higher juvenile mortality or (2) complete loss of first nest 
with the usual smaller clutch from the re -nesting females. 
Banding Operations 
Because of other commitments and the lack of suitable trapping locations the 
summer banding program in Delaware did not get underway until the first week in 
August. At that time a cooperative agreement was worked out with Mr. Hickok, 
manager of the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, whereby trapping and 
banding is being carried out on the refuge by both State and Federal personnel, 
The birds listed in Table V were banded between August 6 and September 15, 1952. 
Table V - Waterfowl Banded in Delaware - Summer 1952 

No sex Adult Immature Females of Grand 
Species orage Male Female Male Female Doubtful Age Total 
Black duck 40 39 84 79 27 269 
Mallard 18 29 10 9 10 76 
Black-Mallard 
Hybrid 3 2 5 3 2 15 
Blue-winged teal 1 l 
Pintail l 1 
Gallinule 7 7 
Total 7 61 70 99 91 41 369 
