kacsa

Kacsa is the Hungarian word for duck, referring to several species of waterfowl in the family Anatidae. In English, the term duck encompasses a broad group of small to medium-sized birds within the order Anseriformes, most of which feed by grazing on the water’s surface or by dabbling in shallow water. The domestic duck (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus) derives primarily from the wild mallard (Anas platyrhynchos).

Habitat and behavior: Ducks occupy wetlands, lakes, rivers, and ponds across temperate and subtropical regions. They are typically social and may form flocks outside the breeding season. Most species are omnivorous, feeding on aquatic plants, seeds, insects, and invertebrates, often by grazing at the water’s edge or dabbling on the surface. They have waterproof plumage maintained by preening with oil produced by the preen gland.

Reproduction and development: During the breeding season, pairs form and the female lays a clutch of eggs, which she incubates for roughly 26–30 days. Ducklings are precocial and feed themselves soon after hatching, with parental care provided by the mother.

Domestication and human use: Ducks have been domesticated for meat, eggs, and feathers for thousands of years. Many breeds show variation in size, plumage, and temperament. In addition to farming, ducks are kept as pets in some regions and are common in rural landscapes.

Conservation: Wild species face habitat loss and hunting in some areas, but many are listed as of least concern; local statuses vary.