Breeding sites

 

The first need is for adequate ground cover to conceal the nests from mammalian and avian predators. This is quite simply provided by keeping out grazing stock, and by planting marsh and backside vegetation. Island nest-sites are far preferable to mainland sites, and usually more successful too, so a profusion of islands is desirable to achieve greater production of young duck. Many small islands are better than one large one, but large ones can be `hollowed out' to provide a sheltered lagoon in the centre.

In recent years the feral mink has become an important potential menace to ducks. Many cases of losses among nesting ducks along river banks have been recorded in which both the sitting duck and eggs have been lost. Fortunately, the 'catch 'em-alive' cage trap, partly concealed with water weeds or bark, and baited with fish or offal, is very effective against mink when sited under the river bank or in an old willow stump.

Pike can cause havoc among young broods, and in enclosed water every effort should be made to remove them. Egg thieves, such as crows, rooks and jackdaws, can be very troublesome, and the use of baited crow cages and shooting are recommended. Rats are always liable to appear, particularly when any feeding is carried out

Tunnel traps will also control stoats which can cause havoc to a brood of ducklings foraging on shore. They are also egg thieves. However, present studies indicate that the fox is the most damaging predator because of the number of incubating females it can kill. Water is no protection and island nests can be just as vulnerable as those on the mainland. Fox control must be carried out, particularly in high-nest-density areas.

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