Quick Answer
Long-Tailed Ducks migrate in large flocks, often forming groups of several hundred individuals. They can be found in these flocks during their spring and fall migrations, particularly in areas with abundant food sources such as marine invertebrates and small fish.
Migration Patterns
Long-Tailed Ducks are known to migrate in large flocks, with some groups numbering up to 1,000 individuals. These flocks form in areas with high concentrations of food, such as marine invertebrates and small fish. In the spring, Long-Tailed Ducks migrate from their wintering grounds in the southern parts of their range to their breeding grounds in the Arctic tundra, with peak migration occurring in May and June. During this time, they can be seen in large flocks in areas such as the Gulf of Alaska and the Bering Sea.
Flocking Behavior
The reason Long-Tailed Ducks migrate in large flocks is largely due to the benefits of foraging and predator avoidance. When foraging in large groups, individual ducks can cover more territory and find more food than they could on their own. Additionally, the presence of a large group provides an added layer of protection against predators such as bears, wolves, and arctic foxes. By migrating in large flocks, Long-Tailed Ducks can reduce their exposure to predators and increase their chances of survival.
Breeding and Nesting
Once Long-Tailed Ducks arrive at their breeding grounds, they establish small territories and begin to nest on the ground or on rocky outcroppings. During this time, they continue to forage in large groups, taking advantage of the abundant food sources available in the Arctic tundra. In areas with suitable habitat, Long-Tailed Ducks can form large breeding colonies, with multiple pairs nesting in close proximity to one another.
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