Lakes and ponds are physical design elements used by landscape architects in the design of the exterior environment. They are one of the most magnetizing and compelling landscape elements (Booth, 255). One of the many categories of animals that are attracted to lakes and ponds are waterfowl and wetland birds. Waterfowls provide landscapes with some of the nature’s most wonderful sights, from vast flocks flying overhead to newly hatched chicks drying in the sun (Welder xi).  Wood duck boxes are used as artificial homes for wood ducks. During a migration season, waterfowl come from all over the country for wintering habitats (Baldassarre and Bolen, 261).

Wood duck nesting boxes help a landscape in many ways. They add a natural element to the landscape. Many other birds come to use the boxes during the off season. Therefore, many insects and seedlings of unwanted plants are eaten. Having wood duck boxes will enhance the landscape and help manage waterfowl at the same time.
 
 

Materials List For One Wood Duck Box  Rough 1" Lumber 10' - 10" Back 30" x 10"....Front 24" x 10" Sides 24" x 10"....Bottom 8" x 10"  Lid 12" x 10"....Lid Cleat 8" x 10"  Nails - Galvanized  Size 8d - 13 per side & 3 in front = 29 total Size 6d - 6 in lid = 6 total

Suggestions For Placing:

1. Nesting box may be placed in a tree. It should be at least 15 feet above the ground and faced toward the water but away from prevailing winds, if possible.

2. A living tree should be chosen since dead trees are more likely to be blown down. The nesting box should be turned so that its entrance hole is not obstructed by branches.

3. If the box is placed on a post in the water, it should be above high water danger. This location is good since it eliminates the danger from ground predators.

PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS:
 

1. Use rough lumber - weathered cedar preferred - do not paint. If smooth or planed wood is used, tack screen inside box from floor to hole (rough wood or screen is necessary for ducklings to climb out). 2. Hole: Four inches wide, three inches high, oval, located four inches from top. 3. Bottom: Bore two or three one-quarter inch holes for drainage. 4. Back board: Extend back board several inches above and below to facilitate fastening to tree or pole.

 

Baldassare, Guy A., Bolden Eric G. Waterfowl Ecology and Management. New York: John Wiley & Sons, 1994.

Bellrose, Frank C. and Daniel J. Holm. Ecology and Management of Wood Ducks. Pennsylvania: Stackpole Books, 1994.

Booth, Norman K. Basic Elements of landscape Architectural Design. Illinois: Waveland, 1992.

Hope Jack. Breaking Out of the Box. Audubon . May, P86.