While it is still difficult to predict which waterfowl will feed on what type of plant, we can look at some of the common aquatic foods and how they might influence these birds. Many studies have involved sample sizes that include over 25 ducks and were conducted in fall or winter. Several fall and winter studies have identified common aquatic plants as Sorghum, Millet, and Pondweed. Despite the limited sample size, we can still make educated guesses about which plants are the most appealing to waterfowl.
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Several fall and/or winter food habit studies with sample sizes representing more than 25 ducks
Several fall and/or winter food habit experiments in various habitats have shown that a variety of feeding habits are associated with the time of year. For example, in a study conducted at the University of Missouri in Columbia, several fall and/or winter food habit experiments with sample sizes of more than 25 ducks showed that a variety of feeding strategies result in the same behavior and diet composition in all species. However, this result does not necessarily mean that a specific food habit is the cause of the food preference of individual ducks.
Common aquatic plants
Waterfowl often consume macrophytes, including macrophytes such as weeds and grasses. This article highlights some of the features that are relevant to understanding the biomass of waterfowl in a specific area. For example, low abundance of macrophytes and abundant phytoplankton indicate that waterfowl feed predominantly on herbivores during warm periods. However, macrophytes are not the only food source for waterfowl, as they are essential for a variety of other activities.
Sorghum
Grain sorghum is an excellent choice for growing for wildlife. Like milo, this species is very low in nutritional value but is extremely good at attracting waterfowl and other wildlife. There are two varieties of grain sorghum: annual and perennial. Today, hybrid varieties have also been developed to meet the needs of different types of landowners. Wildlife Grain Sorghum is the most popular variety for waterfowl food.
Millet
Although its origins are in southeast Asia, millet has been used as a livestock food plant in the United States for decades. It produces large quantities of seeds per plant, with over 40% more protein than seed corn. In addition, millet can be sown early, allowing for early planting, while still being fresh for the arrival of ducks. Regardless of whether you choose to grow it as a food plant for ducks or as a cover crop, this versatile plant will be a great addition to your duck hunting operation.
Fairy moss
Commonly known as Fairy moss, this fern is a popular food source for waterfowl. A family of seven fern species, the genus Azolla includes Fairy moss, water fern, water lettuce, and bog moss. Despite their names, Fairy moss is a native of the Americas. In ponds, fairy moss grows as a floating plant. Its leaves look like cedar trees and float on the water’s surface. When exposed to full sunlight, these fern leaves turn reddish or purple.
Water hyacinth
During the past several years, scientists in Tanzania and the United States have investigated the use of water hyacinth as a feed plant. The aerial part of the plant, which contains the flowers, is a good source of pigments and can substitute up to 20 percent of commercial feed for ruminants. Because of its high water content, water hyacinth is an ideal feed plant for both chickens and ducks.
Jungle rice
This annual grassy weed is a popular food plant for ducks. It is a weed that can grow up to a metre high, but it can spread in a weak erect fashion in mowed areas. It can be difficult to tell it apart from other species of the Echinochloa genus, such as Barnyardgrass, which has spikelets that have awns of varying lengths.
Pea seeds
In the winter, pea seeds are excellent for feeding waterfowl. Pea seeds can be germinated easily and quickly. The vines are easily sheered with scissors. During the growing season, peas can be harvested as shoots or whole plants. The seeds are edible, so they can be enjoyed in salads and stir-fries. Peas can be planted as a food plot or broadcast.
