If you’ve ever seen a bunch of ducks waddling, swimming, or flying together, you may have asked yourself: What is a group of ducks called? The answer actually depends on where they are and what they’re doing. Ducks can be part of a “raft,” “team,” “brace,” or even a “paddling”—depending on the situation.
The Different Names for a Group of Ducks
There isn’t just one term for a group of ducks. The correct name changes depending on whether the ducks are on land, water, or in flight. Here are the most common terms:
| Situation | Group Name |
|---|---|
| On water | Raft, Paddling, or Team |
| On land | Waddle or Brace |
| In flight | Flock, Skein, or String |
So, if you see ducks bobbing on a pond, you’re probably looking at a raft or paddling of ducks. If they’re flying overhead in a V-formation, that’s a skein or flock. And if they’re waddling across a grassy park, you could say it’s a waddle of ducks.
Why So Many Names?
The English language has long used different collective nouns for animals, many dating back hundreds of years. These names were influenced by hunting, farming, and poetic traditions. Ducks, being highly social and visible animals, ended up with several group names—each suited to their behavior in a given moment.
Group Names in Detail
1. Raft of Ducks
Used when: Ducks are on the water, especially floating together closely
This term highlights how tightly ducks group together while floating. It’s often used to describe ducks resting or feeding on lakes and ponds.
2. Paddling of Ducks
Used when: Ducks are gently moving or swimming on water
“Paddling” captures their calm, rhythmic swimming motion—great for describing a peaceful scene of ducks gliding across a stream.
3. Team of Ducks
Used when: Ducks are working or flying together
While less common, this term emphasizes coordination. It’s often applied to domesticated ducks or those in controlled flocks.
4. Waddle of Ducks
Used when: Ducks are walking on land
“Waddle” is the perfect word for the comical side-to-side walk of ducks. It’s a fun and informal way to describe a group strolling across the lawn or field.
5. Brace of Ducks
Used when: Referring to two ducks, usually in hunting terms
Traditionally, a “brace” means a pair. This term is more common among hunters or in historical contexts.
6. Skein of Ducks
Used when: Ducks are flying in formation
“Skein” is often used for ducks or geese flying in a V-shape. It describes their long, string-like appearance in the sky.
7. Flock of Ducks
Used when: Ducks are flying or gathering in general
“Flock” is the most general and widely accepted term for a group of birds, including ducks, in nearly any setting.
Do Ducks Always Stay in Groups?
Most duck species are social and prefer to stay in groups, especially outside of the breeding season. Traveling in groups provides protection, warmth, and better chances of finding food.
- During migration: Ducks fly in large flocks for energy efficiency and navigation.
- During feeding: Groups offer better chances to find food and detect predators.
- During breeding season: Males and females may pair off, and hens may become more solitary when nesting.
Interesting Duck Group Behaviors
Watching a group of ducks can reveal fascinating behaviors:
- Synchrony: Ducks often dive or turn in the same direction at once.
- Vocal communication: Groups use quacks, whistles, and hisses to stay connected.
- Rotating leadership: While flying in formation, ducks rotate positions to conserve energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use “herd” for ducks?
No. “Herd” is typically used for land mammals like cattle or deer. For ducks, stick with terms like flock, raft, or waddle depending on the setting.
Is “gaggle” used for ducks?
“Gaggle” is most commonly used for geese on land. While not entirely wrong, it’s not the standard term for ducks.
What do baby ducks in a group get called?
Baby ducks are called ducklings, and when grouped together, they’re usually just referred to as a “brood” or “group of ducklings.”
Conclusion: A Group of Ducks Has Many Names
So, what is a group of ducks called? It depends! You might be watching a raft on the lake, a waddle on land, or a skein in the sky. No matter what term you use, ducks are endlessly fascinating and social creatures with rich behaviors worth observing.
Want to learn more about ducks, birds, and their habits? Explore our wildlife guides for more fun and informative articles!