Wood Duck
Aix sponsa
Synopsis: Breeds wherever fresh water exists, especially in agricultural areas containing deciduous trees. Most frequent west of the Cascades at lower elevations, and in fresh water near the coast. Most notable are the records from Lake, central Harney, Deschutes, and Malheur Counties. Usually nests in tree cavities or nest boxes.

Habitat Associations:
strongest
Western Oregon Riverine Woodland (27749 acres)
strong
Lake/Pond Shoreline & Islands (430120 acres)
Edges of Freshwater Marsh (10966 acres)
lesser
Red Alder (109019 acres)
Wet Montane Meadow (1289 acres)
Coastal Dunes & Ponds with Widely Scattered Shrubs/Trees (43358 acres)
Streamside/Wetland Shrubland (2171 acres)

Relative Detectability: Easily spotted, and fairly easy to confirm by observing birds entering tree cavity nests or by observing fledged young on ponds with adults.

Challenge: Determine if breeding in Columbia Basin (outside of the Gorge), southern Coast Range, and foothills of southern Cascades.