Knowra Anatidae Anatidae Anatidae is the bird family that includes ducks, geese, swans, and related waterfowl. Its members are adapted to aquatic habitats and have broad bills and webbed feet.
Anseriformes : Anseriformes is the bird order that includes Anatidae and the closely related magpie geese. Anatidae is the largest living family within this broader waterfowl order.
Webbed foot : A webbed foot has skin connecting two or more digits, increasing its area for pushing against water. The broad webs of many anatids provide propulsion during swimming.
Mallard : The mallard is a widespread dabbling duck native to much of the Northern Hemisphere. It is the ancestor of most domestic duck breeds and a familiar wild anatid.
Avian influenza : Avian influenza is a group of influenza A viruses that infect birds and sometimes other animals. Wild waterfowl, including anatids, host and spread many low-pathogenicity strains.
Common eider : The common eider is a large sea duck that breeds along northern coastlines. Its marine life and down feathers exemplify specialized adaptations within Anatidae.
Anatinae : Anatinae is a subfamily of Anatidae that includes dabbling ducks and their close relatives. Its members form one major branch of the family’s duck diversity.
Feather : A feather is a keratin structure growing from a bird’s skin, used in insulation, display, and flight. Dense, water-resistant plumage insulates anatids in cold water.
Domestic duck : A domestic duck is a duck raised by humans, usually descended from the mallard. Domestication makes Anatidae a major source of food, feathers, and working animals.
Wetland : A wetland is an ecosystem where water saturates or covers the soil for part or all of the year. Wetlands provide anatids with breeding sites, shelter, and food.
Common goldeneye : The common goldeneye is a diving duck that breeds in northern forests and winters on water. It nests in tree cavities, contrasting with the ground-nesting habits of many waterfowl.
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