Wood Duck Jump day from a few years ago. Once all ducklings hatch, they all jump out of the nesting box and follow mom to water. | Kevin Thurk Photography

Wood ducks are in nesting mode right now. These wood duck boxes are part of many put up in our Duck River Bottoms area. Both wood ducks and hooded mergansers will use these artificial nesting structures. Our biologist reminds us that one of the most important parts of putting up a wood duck box is the predator guard that helps to protect eggs and ducklings. | Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge