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Minnesota’s breeding ducks bounce back in spring survey

Although pond numbers and wetland habitats were only slightly higher than 2025, duck numbers increased for multiple species, including gadwall (above), during this spring’s Minnesota breeding waterfowl survey. The Minnesota estimate of 678,914 breeding ducks is the most since 2019. (Adobe photo stock)

Duck hunters will have to wait a few weeks before they get to sample the early stages of the fall flight, but an increase in spring duck numbers could mean better hunting early in the year compared to last year. 
Although estimated wetland abundance in 2026 remained below historical averages (This year was only slightly above 2025 estimates), duck numbers increased 63% from last year, according to the recently released 2026 Waterfowl Breeding Population Survey conducted in May by the Minnesota DNR.

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