Waterfowl in Texas Overview
66 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What type of habitat is recommended for nesting mottled ducks?

  • Coastal marshlands with dense vegetation
  • Croplands with levees for flooding
  • Upland depressions with permanent water
  • Shallow flats around ponds (correct)

    • What steps should be taken to improve waterfowl habitat in upland depressions?

  • Create deep pools of water for swimming
  • Discourage the growth of perennial vegetation
  • Construct embankments and water control structures (correct)
  • Introduce invasive plant species for food sources

    • What is the recommended practice after harvesting rice, soybeans, or grain sorghum in cropland?

  • Leave the field untouched for natural regeneration
  • Immediately plant the field with winter wheat or ryegrass
  • Disking several portions of the field to create holes for ducks and geese (correct)
  • Introduce livestock for grazing to improve soil fertility

    • What specific measure is recommended to improve nesting habitat for mottled ducks around farm ponds?

    <p>Leaving a 50-foot perimeter of tall grasses (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these practices is NOT recommended for managing coastal marshlands?

    <p>Introducing exotic plant species for waterfowl food (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of creating shallow flats and installing water control structures around farm ponds?

    <p>Enhancing waterfowl habitat (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In greentree reservoirs, what has been observed in hardwood growth?

    <p>Slight decrease in both quality and quantity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What recommendation is given for managing farm ponds for waterfowl?

    <p>Create shallow areas and control water levels (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended practice for improving waterfowl habitat in croplands that have been idle for a year?

    <p>Roll or disk portions of the field to create holes for waterfowl (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these is a recommended practice for managing coastal marshlands?

    <p>Using cattle grazing to control unwanted vegetation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of duck is best known for feeding by dabbling or tipping in shallow areas?

    <p>Puddle ducks (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a characteristic of diving ducks?

    <p>Their feet are set far back on their body. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do Canada geese differ from snow geese in flight formation?

    <p>They fly in irregular masses and oblique lines. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which waterfowl species has seen an upsurge in numbers in East Texas in recent years?

    <p>Fulvous whistling duck (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement is true regarding lesser snow geese?

    <p>They exhibit dark plumage and white phase variants. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary differentiation factor between the Ross' goose and the snow goose?

    <p>Ross' goose has black wing tips and a smaller body size. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of duck primarily inhabits deeper marshes, bays, and lakes?

    <p>Diving ducks (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What physical feature distinguishes whistling ducks from other duck types?

    <p>Their relatively unknown status in North America. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary distinguishing feature of whited-fronted geese when observed from a distance?

    <p>Their distinctive call, which is high-pitched and laughing (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a primary requirement that wetlands furnish for waterfowl?

    <p>Migration routes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of the U.S. population lives in counties bordering oceans and major lakes?

    <p>50% (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following wetland categories does NOT pertain to Texas?

    <p>Desert Wetlands (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What has contributed to the reduction of bottomland hardwood habitat in Texas?

    <p>Agricultural conversion (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which practice is recommended for waterfowl management in wetlands?

    <p>Maintain water levels during winter and early spring (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the best depth range for shallow water that supports puddle ducks?

    <p>6 to 18 inches (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a recommended method for enhancing the habitat for waterfowl in river bottom areas?

    <p>Control undesirable tree species (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of duck prefers deeper water for feeding compared to puddle ducks?

    <p>Diving ducks (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What management practice should be executed during the summer to benefit waterfowl habitats?

    <p>Mowing or grazing vegetation as needed (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a suggested alternative if an area does not flood naturally at the necessary frequency for waterfowl?

    <p>Creating a greentree reservoir (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact does saltwater intrusion have on Gulf Coast Wetlands?

    <p>It degrades remaining wetland acreage (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to mark trees when managing river bottom habitats?

    <p>To recommend specific tree removal methods (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be considered when constructing a greentree reservoir?

    <p>Using water control structures to manage flooding (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of duck is characterized by its ability to fly directly from any surface, without the need to run or paddle?

    <p>Puddle Ducks (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary distinguishing feature of the Ross' goose, compared to the snow goose?

    <p>The Ross' goose has a smaller body size and a more rapid wing beat. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of 'diving ducks'?

    <p>They can fly off any surface without running or pedaling. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main reason for the increasing numbers of Ross' geese in recent years?

    <p>The text does not explicitly mention a specific reason for the increase. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these waterfowl groups is LEAST known in North America?

    <p>Whistling Ducks (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of snow geese flight?

    <p>They form well-defined V-shaped formations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these statements is true regarding Canada geese?

    <p>There are 11 recognized races of Canada geese, ranging in size from 3.4 pounds to 12.5 pounds. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these waterfowl types is considered a sure-footed walker and runner on land?

    <p>Puddle Ducks (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a benefit provided by wetlands?

    <p>Increased soil salinity (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason for the significant reduction in bottomland hardwood habitat in Texas?

    <p>Agricultural conversion, reservoirs, and development (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following management practices is NOT recommended for greentree reservoirs?

    <p>Maintain a dense tree canopy throughout the flooded area (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following wetland categories in Texas has experienced the most significant net wetland loss between 2004 and 2009?

    <p>Gulf Coast Wetlands (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the feeding habits of puddle ducks?

    <p>They tip over in shallow water to feed on seeds and roots. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended depth range for flooding a greentree reservoir to provide optimal habitat for waterfowl?

    <p>6-18 inches (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a key practice for managing river bottom hardwoods to enhance waterfowl habitat?

    <p>Managing desirable hardwood species that produce mast (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most distinguishable characteristic of whited-fronted geese when observed from a distance?

    <p>Their high-pitched laughing call (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main purpose of planting crops like red rice, Japanese millet, and browntop millet in waterfowl management areas?

    <p>To provide additional food sources for waterfowl (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements is TRUE regarding the management of wetlands for waterfowl?

    <p>Allowing wetlands to dry up during the summer promotes the growth of beneficial emergent vegetation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a recommended management practice for areas that do not naturally flood with sufficient frequency for waterfowl habitat?

    <p>Creating a greentree reservoir with a water control structure (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason for marking trees prior to harvesting them in river bottom hardwood management?

    <p>To identify and preserve mature trees for waterfowl habitat (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main reason for constructing small openings in the tree canopy of a greentree reservoir?

    <p>To provide access for waterfowl and allow for a variety of vegetation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a significant factor contributing to the degradation of Gulf Coast Wetlands?

    <p>Saltwater intrusion caused by canal construction and land subsidence (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main reason for managing water levels in wetlands during the fall, winter, and early spring?

    <p>To provide suitable conditions for waterfowl foraging and resting (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a recommended practice for improving waterfowl habitat in river bottom areas?

    <p>Maintaining a dense tree canopy throughout the area to provide shade (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended practice after harvesting rice, soybeans, or grain sorghum in cropland to benefit waterfowl?

    <p>Roll or lightly disk several one to three-acre portions of the field to create shallow &quot;holes&quot; for waterfowl. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a recommended practice for managing coastal marshlands?

    <p>Remove all native vegetation to promote the growth of desirable waterfowl food plants. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended depth range for shallow water that supports puddle ducks?

    <p>Less than 1 foot deep to facilitate dabbling feeding. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these practices is recommended for managing farm ponds to enhance waterfowl habitat?

    <p>Creating shallow areas around existing ponds and installing a water control structure to manipulate water levels. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended management practice for improving waterfowl habitat in upland depressions?

    <p>Constructing embankments and water control structures to manage water levels. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a suggested alternative to encourage flooding in areas that do not naturally flood at a frequency suitable for waterfowl?

    <p>Pumping water into the area to create artificial flooding. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended practice for improving waterfowl habitat in greentree reservoirs?

    <p>Felling trees to create shallow water areas and allowing the area to naturally regenerate. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary benefit of installing water control structures in croplands, besides erosion control?

    <p>To manipulate water levels for optimal waterfowl habitat and food production. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary concern associated with saltwater intrusion on Gulf Coast wetlands?

    <p>Saltwater intrusion can disrupt the natural balance of the ecosystem and harm native plant and animal life. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is the most important factor to consider when constructing a greentree reservoir?

    <p>The impact of the reservoir on surrounding natural areas and wildlife. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Waterfowl in Texas

    • Texas is a crucial wintering area for millions of waterfowl; some species breed and raise young, others migrate, and still others are resident winterers
    • "Puddle ducks" prefer shallow marshes and rivers; they are good divers, but feed by dabbling or tipping; they are sure-footed and can fly off any surface without running or pedaling
    • Common puddle ducks include mallard, gadwall, pintail, blue-winged teal, green-winged teal, American widgeon, shoveler, wood duck, and mottled duck
    • "Diving ducks" (divers) prefer deeper water in marshes, bays, and lakes; their feet are set further back, with lobed hind toes; they run or pedal to take flight
    • Common divers include redhead, canvasback, ring-necked duck, bufflehead, goldeneye, merganser, lesser scaup, and ruddy duck
    • Fulvous whistling duck and black-bellied whistling duck populations are increasing in East Texas; these are the least known ducks in North America
    • Four common goose species winter in Texas: Canada, lesser snow, Ross', and white-fronted

    Canada Geese

    • Canada geese are most familiar to North Americans
    • Eleven subspecies range from a giant 12.5 lbs to a small cackling goose of only 3.4 lbs.

    Lesser Snow Geese

    • Have two color phases: blue (dark plumage) and white (often mistaken for a separate species); thought to be separate species until 1961
    • Fly in undulating, irregular patterns rather than typical V-formations; fly faster with a quicker wing beat than Canada geese

    Ross' Geese

    • Small, white geese with black wingtips; often mistaken for snow geese
    • Smaller body size, shorter necks, more rapid wing beat, and higher-pitched call than snow geese; numbers greatly increased over the last 25 years

    White-Fronted Geese

    • Brownish-gray in appearance; show no plumage distinguishing characteristics at a distance
    • Fly in large flocks and V formations; have a distinctive high-pitched, laughing call

    Wetland Habitat

    • Wetlands are crucial to waterfowl, providing food, water, resting/roosting cover, and nesting grounds; they are the most productive wildlife areas
    • Provide important benefits to humans: flood protection, erosion control, fisheries, water quality, and recreation
    • Significant wetland loss across the 48 continental US states; over 40% permanently altered

    Texas Wetlands Types and Loss

    • Texas wetlands include Gulf Coast wetlands, bottomland hardwood forests, playa lakes, freshwater springs, West Texas riparian areas, and coastal pothole wetlands
    • Gulf Coast wetlands lost 257,150 acres between 2004-2009; much degraded by saltwater intrusion
    • Bottomland hardwoods reduced by 63% (from 16 million to 5.9 million acres) due to agricultural conversion, reservoirs, and development

    Wetland Management Practices

    • Waterfowl habitat improvements focus on shallow water (6-18 inches) for puddle ducks, deeper water for divers to maintain during fall, winter, and early spring; drained in summer for vegetation growth
    • Encourage desirable plants (smartweed, barnyard grass, etc.); plant crops like red rice, Japanese millet, or browntop millet as food
    • Follow state/federal laws on baiting
    • River bottom management includes maintaining beneficial hardwood species, controlling unwanted species, and creating greentree reservoirs for seasonal flooding. Managing trees for mast production is important, as are controls on undesirable species.
    • Fencing protects areas from livestock

    Managing Upland Depressions and Croplands

    • Upland depressions improved by creating shallow water and managing water levels; planting waterfowl food crops when natural options are lacking
    • Install water control structures in fields for water manipulation or erosion control
    • Post-harvest rolling or disking; gradually flooding to 12 inches or less until late March or as long as possible
    • Planting ryegrass or winter wheat in fall for geese in unflooded areas

    Managing Coastal Marshlands

    • Control saltwater intrusion; construct small embankments to hold shallow water
    • Plant winter wheat or ryegrass, controlling unwanted vegetation through grazing, burning, or mowing
    • Careful monitoring is critical

    Managing Farm Ponds

    • Select areas with shallow flats (or create them); trap rainwater and drain shallow water in early spring
    • Leave deeper water for recreation, fish production, or livestock; plant tall grasses around perimeter for nesting habitat; install wood duck boxes

    Waterfowl Identification

    • Identifying waterfowl requires effort and practice; accurate identification is crucial for waterfowl hunters

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Description

    Explore the diverse waterfowl species found in Texas, a vital wintering ground for many ducks and geese. Learn about the different types of ducks like puddle and diving ducks, along with the increasing populations of certain whistling ducks. This quiz will also touch on the well-known Canada geese and their habitat in Texas.

    More Like This

    Waterfall vs Agile
    19 questions

    Waterfall vs Agile

    TroubleFreeDesert avatar
    TroubleFreeDesert
    Waterfall Model in Software Development Quiz
    10 questions

    Waterfall Model in Software Development Quiz

    SelfSatisfactionGriffin avatar
    SelfSatisfactionGriffin
    Waterfowl Review: Mallard Ducks
    18 questions

    Waterfowl Review: Mallard Ducks

    DynamicTantalum avatar
    DynamicTantalum
    Waterfall Formation Flashcards
    8 questions

    Waterfall Formation Flashcards

    PatriLavender avatar
    PatriLavender
    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Open
    Browser
    Browser