The ducks occur across most of the world except for Antarctica, although some survive on sub-Antarctic islands. Depending on the species, they occur in both fresh water and sea water. They are generally smaller than the swans and geese

For more information about ducks, please visit this webpage: http://www.avianweb.com/duckinfo.html

True Geese are medium to large water birds with a nearly global distribution. However, the highest concentration is found in the Northern Hemisphere.

The male is referred to as "gander," the female as "goose," and the chicks are called goslings.

A flock of geese on the ground is known as gaggle. Geese flying in the typical v-formation are referred to as "wedge" or skein."

For more information about geese, please visit this webpage: http://www.avianweb.com/geese.htm

Swans are amongst the largest flying birds - they can reach a length of over 1.5 m (60 inches) and weigh over 15 kg (33 pounds). They are much larger than the related geese and have proportionally larger feet and necks. Swans occurring in the Northern Hemisphere have a white plumage, while those found in the Southern Hemisphere have a black and white plumage. The Australian Black Swan is completely black except for the white flight feathers on its wings.

Four (or five) species occur in the Northern Hemisphere, one species is found in Australia and New Zealand and one species is native in southern South America. The Mute Swan has been introduced to North America, Australia and New Zealand. Migration: Several species are migratory or partly migratory, while some populations are resident.. The Mute Swan is a partial migrant, being resident over areas of Western Europe but wholly migratory in Eastern Europe and Asia. The Whooper Swan and Tundra Swan are fully migratory, and the Trumpeter Swans are fully migratory. Evidence suggests that the Black-necked Swan is migratory over part of its range.

For more information about swans, please visit this webpage:http://www.avianweb.com/swans.htm