Pond ecology and its influence on Mallard use in Ontario, Canada

Abstract

This study, conducted near Cambridge, Ontario, associated selected characteristics of ponds with pond use by Mallard Anas platyrhynchos from April through September 1977-78. Use by Mallard pairs was positively related to pond size; however, the spacing of pairs on ponds suggested that pond use was probably regulated by behavioural mechanisms. Mallard broods frequented ponds with some surface cover; abundance of food appeared less important. Post-breeding Mallard used ponds supporting an abundant and accessible variety of plant foods. Autumn pre-migratory Mallard used ponds with numerous loafing sites and close to grain fields.