The World of Ducks

Masters of Water

Ducks are perfectly adapted for an aquatic life. Their feathers are coated in a special oil, making them completely waterproof, while their webbed feet act as powerful paddles for swimming.

A white pekin duck
a mallard duck

Global Travelers

Found on every continent except Antarctica, ducks are true globetrotters. They inhabit a wide range of wetlands, from small backyard ponds to vast coastal marshes, showcasing incredible adaptability.

2025 Duck Population by Country

Global duck populations are distributed across many continents, but the highest concentration is found in Asia, particularly in China. China is home to the largest number of domestic ducks in the world, accounting for a significant portion of the global total due to its long history of duck farming and the popularity of duck meat and eggs in Chinese cuisine. While wild duck species are spread across North America, Europe, and other parts of Asia, the sheer volume of domesticated ducks in China makes it the leading contributor to global duck numbers. Conservation efforts continue in various regions to protect wild duck habitats, especially as wetlands face increasing threats from urbanization and climate change.

Coastal estuary habitat