Latest Wisconsin waterfowl survey shows stable populations, habitat conditions

Madison, Wis. – The Wisconsin DNR announced that data is now available from the annual spring survey of breeding waterfowl. The survey indicated stable population numbers and habitat conditions for migratory birds.

The data from this survey is used as part of the overall survey of breeding waterfowl in North America, and the information helps the DNR make management decisions about waterfowl in Wisconsin. The survey has been conducted annually since 1973, except for 2020. Survey results are best interpreted as trends over several years rather than year-to-year comparisons.

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Surveyors estimated the state’s 2026 breeding duck population at 571,460 birds, a 1% increase from 2025 and 28% above the long-term average. The 2026 mallard breeding population estimate is 162,894 birds, 5% higher than 2025 but still 8% lower than the long-term average.

Wood duck populations are up 6% from 2025 and remain 12% above the long-term average. The 2026 blue-winged teal estimate is 111,917, which is up 19% compared to 2025 and 7% above the long-term average.

The Canada goose population estimate is 2% lower than 2025, yet still remains 13% higher than the long-term average.

Find additional data from this and other wildlife survey reports on the DNR’s Wisconsin Wildlife Reports webpage.

Event for Wisconsin waterfowl hunters

For those interested in waterfowl, the Waterfowl Hunters Expo is being held on Aug. 21-22, 2026, at the Sunnyview Expo Center in Oshkosh.

The Waterfowl Hunters Expo is open to waterfowl hunting enthusiasts of any age. The expo will feature hands-on exhibits for attendees to try and buy the latest in outdoor products and presentations from industry experts, habitat managers and waterfowl scientists. The event is family and dog-friendly, setting the stage for hunters to come together and experience everything waterfowl.

The Waterfowl Expo is also the home of the state waterfowl, turkey and pheasant stamp competition, as well as the state duck and goose calling contests.

More event and ticket information is available on the Waterfowl Hunters Expo website.