BenbrookDucks.com

Absolutely! Our ducks are always ready for a tasty treat. Just make sure to bring some duck-approved snacks like cracked corn or lettuce. Remember, a happy duck is a well-fed duck!

The most common dabbling duck that is frequently spotted and interacted with are Mallard ducks. In addition, American pekin ducks also reside at Mont Del Park. From time to time, you can also spot Muscovy Ducks, which they often resemble turkeys with their wart-covered faces. There are all types of dabbling ducks to discover at Benbrook’s Mont Del Park.

To help our webbed-footed and socially lovable ducks healthy and around for years to come, plan on feeding them the following duck-friendly and duck-safe foods:

Remember that ducks are omnivores, meaning ducks prefer to eat plants, animals, insects, fish, and crustaceans, to name a few. Depending upon the duck species and its habitat’s ecosystem, a duck’s diet will vary based on the number of plants and insects.

Two of the worst foods to feed ducks that are thought to be duck-friendly and duck-safe foods are bread and crackers. Under no circumstances should bread and crackers ever be fed to ducks. Feeding ducks bread and crackers can malnourish a duck as well as introduce unwanted parasites and diseases into its ecosystem.

In addition, below is a list of additional food and beverage that should not be fed to ducks:

The best times to encounter Benbrook ducks are between 6 am to 9 am and anytime after 5 pm daily. The morning time slot is the best time to see and feed all of the ducks. Ducks tend to scatter throughout the day to nest and nap away from the pond to shield themselves from the brutal Texas heat. The ducks also receive visits from many locals and tourists most evenings, especially during summer.

In addition, park hours for both Benbrooks Dutch Branch Park and Mont Del Park, which is the location of the duck pond, are 6 am to 10 pm daily.

The ducks at Benbrook’s Mont Del Park are some of the most sociable and friendly, especially during mealtime. Benbrook ducks are your best friend when food is in hand. Of course, when food, animals, and humans are involved and cross one another’s paths, there is likely to be the occasional aggressive behavior. Please do your best to feed ducks, not tease and provoke our friends into hostile behavior.

But even with food not involved, the ducks at Benbrook’s Mont Del Park are docile, very easygoing, and have adapted well to engaging people of all ages. Treat Benbrook ducks with kindness, and they’ll likewise return the favor.

Ducks have a unique way of processing their food since they don’t have teeth. Instead of chewing, they rely on a clever trick. By consuming sand and gravel, ducks aid their digestion process. The sand and gravel act like natural grinders in their stomachs, breaking down the food and preparing it for absorption. This allows ducks to extract the energy they need from their meals efficiently. So, next time you spot a duck nibbling on some sandy snacks, know that they’re simply getting ready to power up!

As of to date, none of the ducks in their quacky community at Mont Del Park have names. But rest assured, each duck has their own unique personality, from the adventurous explorers to the chill loungers. But don’t let them not having official names keep you from visiting them and naming them accordingly.

In the wild, ducks are quite skilled aviators. They can fly at impressive speeds, reaching an average cruising speed of around 40-60 miles per hour. And when it comes to distance, they can cover quite the ground, flying up to a few hundred miles during their migratory journeys. Talk about some serious wing power!

Ah, the age-old question of duck gender identification! When it comes to telling apart male and female ducks, nature has its clever ways.

One clue lies in their colorful plumage. Male ducks, often referred to as drakes, are the true peacocks of the waterfowl world. They showcase vibrant and eye-catching feathers with mesmerizing patterns and striking hues. On the other hand, female ducks, known as hens, tend to have more subdued plumage, with tones that provide better camouflage for nesting and raising their ducklings.

But wait, there’s more! Another hint lies in their voices. If you listen carefully, you might notice that male ducks have a distinctive quack that tends to be louder and raspier, while female ducks produce a softer and more gentle quack.

So, by observing their feathers’ dazzling display and paying attention to their vocalizations, you can unravel the secrets of duck gender. Remember, each duck is unique, and it’s all part of the wonderful diversity that makes these feathered friends delightful to admire and appreciate.

Ducks, like many creatures, have their own journey through life. On average, ducks tend to live for about 5 to 10 years in the wild. However, some lucky ducks have been known to reach the ripe old age of 20 years or even more!

Now, it’s important to note that the lifespan can vary depending on several factors, including the duck’s species, habitat, and overall well-being. Ducks face different challenges in their natural environments, from predators to harsh weather conditions, which can impact their longevity.

But fear not! Ducks living in protected areas or under the loving care of humans can enjoy longer life. Domesticated ducks, cherished as beloved pets, can often live up to 10 to 15 years or even longer with proper care, attention, and a safe environment.

While ducks are generally resilient creatures, they, like any living being, can face their fair share of health challenges. Here are a few common diseases that ducks may encounter:

• Duck plague is a highly contagious and fatal disease caused by the herpes virus. It can cause various symptoms, including diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, and death.
• Duck viral hepatitis is a serious disease that can cause liver damage and death in ducks. It is caused by a virus that is spread through contact with infected birds or their droppings.
• Avian cholera is a bacterial infection that can cause a variety of symptoms, including diarrhea, vomiting, and death. It is spread through contact with infected birds or their droppings.
• Botulism is a neurological disease that can be caused by eating contaminated food. It can cause paralysis and death in ducks.
• Parasites can also cause problems for ducks. Common parasites include worms, lice, and mites. These parasites can cause a variety of health problems, including weight loss, anemia, and skin irritation.

Ducks face a variety of potential threats in the wild. Here are some common predators that ducks need to watch out for and steer clear of:

1. Foxes: These sly creatures are known for their stealthy hunting skills. Foxes can pose a significant threat to ducks, particularly during nesting season.
2. Birds of Prey: Majestic raptors like hawks, eagles, and owls have keen eyesight and sharp talons, making them formidable duck hunters.
3. Snakes: Some snake species, such as racers and water snakes, are skilled swimmers and can snatch unsuspecting ducks near water bodies.
4. Mammalian Predators: Various mammals, including raccoons, minks, and weasels, are opportunistic predators and may target ducks if given a chance.
5. Domestic Pets: Unleashed dogs and cats can threaten ducks, especially in urban or suburban areas near ponds or lakes.

Ducks have developed their own defense mechanisms and rely on their keen instincts to evade these predators. They seek safety in numbers, stay alert, and take to the water or fly away if they sense danger. It’s nature’s way of keeping them safely alert, aware, and on their webbed toes!

Ducks have their own unique ways of expressing their feelings. Here’s how you can tell if a duck is happy or agitated:

Happy Duck Signs:

1. Contented Quacks: Listen closely to their quacks. Happy ducks often emit soft, rhythmic quacks, indicating a sense of tranquility and satisfaction.
2. Relaxed Body Language: A happy duck will have a relaxed posture, holding its body loosely and wings slightly open. They may also preen their feathers or take leisurely swims.
3. Playful Behavior: Happy ducks love to engage in playful activities, like splashing water or bobbing their heads up and down in excitement.
4. Healthy Appetite: A duck that’s happily munching on food and showing a healthy appetite is likely in a good mood.

Agitated Duck Signs:

1. Loud Quacks: When ducks are agitated, their quacks become louder, more rapid, and may have a harsher tone.
2. Flapping Wings: Agitated ducks may flap their wings vigorously as if trying to create distance or intimidate a perceived threat.
3. Defensive Stance: An agitated duck may assume a defensive posture, with its body lowered, wings tucked tightly, and head held high.
4. Rapid Movements: Agitated ducks tend to move quickly and erratically, showing signs of restlessness or unease.

Remember, each duck has a personality, so observe their behavior and body language to understand their mood better. Just like us, ducks have their happy quacks and their agitated flaps!

Ducks located at Mont Del Park in the heart of Benbrook, Texas are non-migratory waterfowl. While the various duck species reside at Mont Del Park, many locals have reported seeing the ducks peacefully enjoying the vast ecosystem of nearby Benbrook Lake.