The American Black Duck breeding population is primarily monitored through the Eastern Waterfowl Breeding Ground Survey (EWS). Black Duck numbers are also monitored through other smaller-scale breeding waterfowl surveys such as the Southern Ontario Waterfowl Plot Survey and the St. Lawrence Lowlands Breeding Waterfowl Survey. Despite it being one of the most abundant duck species, the population has been declining since the 1950s. Causes of this decline are thought to include: changes in breeding and wintering habitat quality, overharvesting, and competition and hybridization with Mallards (Conroy et al. 2002). Black Duck numbers appear to have stabilized over the last 20–30 years. The American Black Duck is at an acceptable level relative to its national population goal. Detailed information on the population status of waterfowl species is available in the Population Status of Migratory Game Birds in Canada report (summarized version). To obtain a copy of the full version of this report, including tables and graphs, please contact ec.scf-oismiggibiers-cws-miggamebirds.ec@canada.ca.
Additional information on: St-Lawrence Lowland Breeding Waterfowl Survey
Additional information on: Southern Ontario Waterfowl Plot Survey
Additional information on: Eastern Waterfowl Breeding Ground Survey
