Second broods in wood ducks [Aix sponsa, Missouri]

Of 1,626 nesting attempts by wood ducks (Aix sponsa) in southeastern Missouri, 35 were 2nd clutches that were laid in the same season after an initial nest was successful. Most 2nd nests were initiated between 15 and 30 May and were an average of 876 m away from 1st nests. Clutch sizes were different between 1st and 2nd clutches, but hatching success was not. Most females known to raise 2nd broods were 2 years of age or older. Females with 2nd nests weighed less at initiation of incubation and lost less weight per day than during the 1st nesting.