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List of Pond Birds

Ornithologists classify any birds that live in or around small bodies of water as pond birds. The diverse ecology of ponds and lakes form an ideal environment for birds to nest and find food. The temperature around ponds is also relatively stable, allowing birds longer periods of time for mating, migration and rearing hatchlings. While some species of pond birds are adapted to swimming and living in water, most simply gravitate toward the rich environment surrounding ponds.

Ducks, Geese, Swans
- Mallard ducks are common pond birds.
  
  Ducks, swans and geese are all in the family Anatidae and may be confused with one another. Their webbed feet are specially adapted for swimming, and their feathers help to insulate them from moisture. The main differences between ducks and geese are dietary. Ducks and swans are omnivores. Geese are herbivores. Geese also tend to be larger than ducks and migrate across greater distances. Swans can only fly for short distances and always mate for life. The mating patterns of ducks and geese vary from species to species. Mallard ducks, Canada geese and trumpeter swans are common in the United States.
Cranes and Herons
- Herons are wading birds.
  
  Cranes and herons are superficially similar in appearance, but are no more closely related to each other than they are to other birds. They have long necks and a long, thin bill used for fishing. Herons typically have heavier bodies and wider abdomens than herons, while herons may have dramatic patterns of fur on their heads. Both species are wading birds, which means that they wade into water but typically don't swim. While herons are carnivores, cranes are omnivores who vary their diet according to environmental conditions.
  
  The great blue heron is one of the most famous birds in North America. They have bright blue plumage around their heads and stand three feet tall.
Kingfishers
- Several species of kingfisher are blue.
  
  Kingfishers populate ponds and lakes throughout the world. Their long, sharp bill, short tail and large head make them easy to recognize. These birds often have brightly colored plumage and are frequently blue or orange. Unlike cranes and herons, they don't wade in water. Instead they fly just above water to catch fish. Though these birds spend most of their time near water, they don't actually live in or around ponds. Instead, kingfishers dig holes in which to nest.
Other Birds
- Blackbirds are highly territorial
  
  Several other species of birds may choose to live near ponds because of the ready access they provide to food, water and shelter. Blue jays enjoy eating fish and may flock to ponds when fish are readily accessible. Blackbirds are also attracted to ponds and, because of their territorial nature, will aggressively fight off other birds who attempt to encroach on them. Other birds that frequently live near ponds include woodpeckers, hummingbirds, robins, woodcocks and grosbeaks.

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