Mallard ducks are a familiar sight across various landscapes, from serene ponds to even unexpected places like swimming pool covers. Homeowners are often surprised to find these waterfowl taking up residence in their backyards. A common question that arises when dealing with these unexpected visitors is: Do Mallard Ducks Fly? The answer is a resounding yes. Mallards are indeed strong fliers, capable of traveling long distances and taking flight with impressive speed. Understanding their ability to fly is key to effectively and humanely deterring them from areas where they are not wanted, such as swimming pools and enclosed yards.
Why Mallards Choose Your Backyard (and How Flight Plays a Role)
Mallards are opportunistic birds, and several factors might attract them to your property. Swimming pool covers, especially in winter, can collect rainwater, snow, and debris, creating temporary ponds that mimic natural habitats. These artificial ponds quickly become breeding grounds for aquatic invertebrates – a food source that mallards find irresistible. Their ability to fly allows them to easily locate these temporary water sources from above, making your backyard pool cover a convenient dining spot.
Female mallards may also choose enclosed spaces, like courtyards or fenced yards (often those with pools), as nesting sites. While the mother duck can fly in and out to forage, the ducklings, once hatched, are flightless for approximately 60 days. This is where understanding their flight capability becomes crucial in managing situations where ducklings are trapped.
Deterring Mallards from Swimming Pools
If mallards are using your pool cover as a temporary pond, they are likely there for the food source. Here are effective, humane ways to deter them, keeping in mind their ability to fly away when disturbed:
- Remove the Pool Cover: The most straightforward solution is to eliminate the habitat altogether. If possible, remove the pool cover.
- Clear and Maintain the Cover: If removing the cover isn’t feasible, regularly clear it of standing water and debris. Mallards are less likely to stay if the “pond” disappears.
- Harassment Techniques: Mallards are sensitive to disturbances. Loud noises like clapping or banging pots and pans can startle them. Consistency is key; repeat the harassment frequently to encourage them to leave permanently. However, if you suspect a nest is nearby, avoid harassment as it could cause the mother to abandon her eggs.
- Mylar Streamers: The flashing, erratic movement of Mylar streamers is highly effective in frightening ducks. Place stakes around your pool and stretch Mylar streamers across to create an “X” shape. The visual disturbance will deter them from landing.
- Lightweight Pool Cover: When the pool isn’t in use, a lightweight solar cover can prevent ducks from accessing the water.
- Avoid Fake Predators: Plastic owls or snakes are ineffective long-term deterrents. Ducks are intelligent and quickly learn these are not real threats.
Assisting Ducklings in Enclosed Areas
When female mallards nest in enclosed areas, the inability of ducklings to fly becomes a challenge once they hatch. Here’s how to help:
- Herding Ducklings: Gather a group of people and gently herd the ducklings towards an exit. Move slowly and quietly to avoid stressing them or the mother duck, if she is nearby.
- Using a Box: If the only exit is through a building, carefully place the ducklings in a shallow box and carry them outside. The mother duck may follow if she can hear her young.
- Reuniting Mother and Ducklings: Place the box near where you found the ducklings and tip it so they can easily rejoin their mother. If the mother isn’t immediately visible, wait out of sight nearby for her return. If you’ve noticed the direction the mother typically flies out of the enclosure, place the box on that side of the building to increase the chances of a quick reunion.
Supporting Bird Conservation in Massachusetts and Beyond
Understanding mallard behavior, including their flight capabilities, helps us coexist with wildlife and address conflicts humanely. Organizations like Mass Audubon play a vital role in supporting bird conservation through scientific research, habitat preservation, and educational initiatives. By learning more about local birdlife and supporting conservation efforts, we can ensure that mallards and other species continue to thrive in Massachusetts and beyond.
Learn more about Mass Audubon’s work in bird conservation.
Support bird conservation by becoming a Mass Audubon member today.
