Site requirements

 Where lake size is concerned obviously the larger the better, but even quite small areas can be made to produce ducks. Whatever the size, it is far better to have a long, irregular and gently shelving shoreline, and many islands, than it is to have a single large body of water with straight, steeply graded banks.

The water must have a range of depths, with a large proportion relatively shallow, i.e., less than 3 ft. ( 1 m.) deep. The water supply must be reliable and fairly constant, so that the levels are naturally stable. It should also be unpolluted, preferably alkaline, and rich in calcium and plant nutrients. The facility to control water levels by mechanical means such as weirs and sluices is of great value in various management procedures and should, if possible, be included.

All waterfowl have certain common requirements. Their habitat must be able to meet these needs if it is to be successful as a nesting area, a winter refuge, a safe place for the mid-summer moult, and as a year-round feeding site. The precise requirements vary with species and with season but the following are essential to all:

1. Seclusion, shelter and freedom from disturbance

2. Safe, quiet loafing areas

3. High-quality nesting areas with adequate ground cover

4. Good, rich, shallow-water feeding sites

 

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