What does the Gadwall eat?

The Gadwall's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Herbivore, primarily consuming aquatic vegetation, seeds, and some invertebrates.

How it forages

Primarily a dabbling duck, feeding by tipping head-down to reach submerged vegetation and seeds. Also grazes on emergent vegetation and occasionally filters invertebrates from the water surface. They are known to steal food from diving ducks.

When it feeds

Diurnal, primarily feeding during daylight hours, though some nocturnal feeding may occur.

Explore the Gadwall