Quick Answer
American wigeons thrive in wetland habitats with shallow water, abundant aquatic vegetation, and nearby fields with invertebrates and grasses. They require areas with dense vegetation, such as cattails, bulrushes, and sedges. These birds also need access to open water for feeding, breeding, and molting.
Habitat Characteristics
American wigeon habitats typically consist of shallow marshes (less than 8 inches deep), shallow lake edges, and wet meadows. These areas usually include a mix of 10-20% open water, 30-50% dense aquatic vegetation, and 30-50% open fields. The ideal habitat should have a mix of water depths, ranging from 2-6 inches, and a diverse array of aquatic plants.
Habitat Identification Techniques
When searching for American wigeon habitats, look for areas with signs of recent wigeon activity, such as dug-up sediments, crushed vegetation, and droppings. Identify areas with dense vegetation and shallow water, and check for the presence of wigeon droppings, which are usually 2-3 inches in diameter and have a brown, watery appearance. Use binoculars or a spotting scope to survey the area, and pay attention to the presence of other wigeon species, such as the American green-winged teal.
Hunting Techniques
When hunting American wigeon, focus on areas with shallow water and dense aquatic vegetation. Use decoy spreads featuring a mix of male and female wigeons, and place them in areas with high wigeon activity. Shoot over decoys, using a shotgun with a 3-inch chamber and a #4 or #5 shot. Be prepared to hunt early in the morning and late in the afternoon, when wigeon are most active.
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