Careful study of the Mallard and American Black Duck has allowed me to reliably distinguish them from one another when I get good, clear views of plumage and bill color.
Although natural cavities can be provided by leaving standing dead trees, the easiest way to supply ample nesting cavities is to build and install songbird boxes.
After migrating over 2,500 kilometers from the Arctic tundra, Snow Buntings make agricultural fields and burned prairies in Wisconsin their home from now until next April.
The birds are slim and dark with black heads, necks, and breasts. Their wings are a light gray and sometimes you can catch a glimpse of white undertail coverts. Black Terns!