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Facts about Duck Boxes

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One of the best ways to attract wild ducks is through the use of a duck box. The use of the box is particularly to boost the number of ducks in several local populations. Before, wood ducks are abundant in several parts of the United States. However, due to constant hunting their numbers gradually declined. Constant hunting and land reclamations have nearly caused the extinction of this type of bird. Now, because of the changes in the law the wood ducks have increased in numbers. Wild ducks often use the boxes as homes and they often lay eggs on such boxes.

 

The Importance of the Boxes

The importance of the boxes is that most wood ducks and other duck species usually make it their home. Yes, duck females typically live in wetlands and in wooden boxes. Because of their constant migration, they require homes in various places. When a prospective wooden box is found, the wood duck will often inspect the box and check its contents. Wood ducks often pick their boxes according to their size and shape. Of course, they will also pick a home which is away from any predators. Once they have selected a suitable box for them they will often lay eggs there. The eggs will hatch and then they will then migrate to another location. Basically, a duck box is effective increasing the population of both wooden ducks and other species.

Picking the Right Location for a box

In order to pick the right location for a box, several factors should be strictly considered. One of which is that the box should be away from any known predator which might endanger the tenants of the box. Therefore, the box should have wooden posts and several metal cables in order to prevent any predators from eating the birds. The box should also be found near a suitable habitat and it should not be very far. Usually, wild ducks prefer homes which are a hundred yards away from their habitat. The reason for which is that they require the fertile wetlands for food and for looking for a partner. The shallow wetlands allow them to look for insects and small fishes which in turn becomes their meal.

Using the right materials

Another important factor when making a duck box is to choose the right wood for the job. The ideal type of wood is the rough cut and unfinished lumber since the ducklings have the sharp claws to create an exit hole. Metal or plastic boxes are not ideal since they might impede the ducklings from exiting the structure. At least a couple of wood shavings should also be inserted on the box so that the ducks will have a nest. Once the females see the wood shavings, they will usually use it in order to incubate their eggs. After the winter season, the boxes should have a new batch of wood shavings since the old batch will be damaged by the harsh weather brought about by the winter cold.