Mallard or Wood duck?

[Mothsgal]

I've posted on the "Raising Wood Ducks" thread about the eggs and nest that were blown out of a tree in a storm Thursday night. he nest was about 20 feet up. We rescued 2 of the eggs and they hatched. I thought they were Wood Ducks, never heard of Mallards nesting in a tree so high up....but now they're out and I'm wondering if they are Mallards. Mostly, the eye stripe which runs through the eye rather than starting at the eye. Can anyone help with this?

 

[Speceider]

Look like mallards to me. yes, mallards have been reported to nest in trees, as have black ducks.

Clint

 

[Mothsgal]

Thanks, Clint. What's the best way to care for them before we release them? The nest was completely destroyed and we haven't seen the mom anywhere since the storm. They're doing well right now in our home, but I'm guessing they need to get outside and into water pretty soon? I want to keep them protected from predators, etc. too.

Thanks!

 

[jellybellyx6]

They look like Mallards as Clint said and as far as how to care for them it is not much different then caring for chickens or ducks you buy make sure they have food, water and heat. When they are fully feathered and able to swim you can put them in a pond and let them do their thing. They will forage and find their own food.