The idea that ducks can't climb trees is common knowledge. However, in the Changbai Mountain region, there exists a special type of duck known as the "Chinese Autumn Sand Duck," which can easily ascend trees. This duck is an extremely precious bird species in China, found in areas such as Inner Mongolia, Heilongjiang, and Jilin. The male duck has a long, slender bill with nostrils located in the middle of the bill, topped with a long crest of feathers, and its black and white plumage is quite striking. The female duck is smaller and has different feather colors, but is equally beautiful.
The breeding habits of the Chinese Autumn Sand Duck have long been a mystery. It wasn't until the early 1960s that Chinese zoologists uncovered the secret, discovering that these ducks nest and breed in natural tree cavities. Every spring, they migrate from the south to the Changbai Mountains, living in dense primeval forests. The Chinese Autumn Sand Duck is an excellent diver, preying on small fish, shrimp, and aquatic insects. They become active early each morning and rest only by evening.
These ducks practice monogamy, but instances of one male with multiple females can occasionally occur. Males often engage in fierce battles for mates. The female builds a simple nest in tree cavities, primarily made of wood shavings and her own feathers. Each clutch contains 10 to 12 eggs, with an incubation period lasting up to a month. During incubation, the female rarely leaves the nest, showing a strong determination to protect her offspring, even in the face of external disturbances.
Once hatched, the ducklings can open their eyes and are covered in golden down, moving swiftly. They can not only dive but also quickly conceal themselves; when danger approaches, they swim upstream and disappear into the waves.
Due to their unique lifestyle and rarity, the Chinese Autumn Sand Duck has been classified as a national first-class protected animal.
