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| Ocean salinity, currents and tidal action keep coastal waters open in the late fall and early spring, providing habitat for seabirds that rely on coastal waters or open ocean for food. An enclosed bay, estuary, and open ocean create habitat for migrating shorebirds and wintering marine ducks. |
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| American Black Duck |
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| Common in Plymouth Harbor during winter and fall, Black Ducks are much harder to find during the summer, when most leave to breed in salt and freshwater marshes. Very similar to Mallards, Black Ducks are increasingly threatened by this close relative, with which it competes for both space and food. Look for Black Ducks near the mouth of the Eel River or on open flats during low tide. |
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