Posted by alekzanadra kal on April 17, 2004

Q: what are ducks defense mechanisms to like adapt to their surroundings?? and how to ducks regulate there body temperature?? Thank you

A: I'm a bit unclear about your question but a duck's most obvious defense mechanism or defense bahavior is to fly away, swim away or even in some kinds, dive to avoid danger. Female ducks are usually camouflaged so they blend in to their surroundings. This is especially important while they sit on a nest to incubate their eggs.

During really cold weather, it's common to see ducks sitting on the ice with their feet tucked up under their feathers and maybe even their bill tucked under too. Often too, ducks will make a point of staying in the water if open water is available if temperatures are especially cold since open water is above freezing and therefore warmer than the temperature on dry land. In really hot weather, I've noticed that ducks are especially attracted to the water and seem to spend more time spashing around much as you might on a hot summer's day if you were in a pool. Hope this helps.

John Wiessinger ( April 19, 2004)