Few rivers and takes around the world are without ducks-the most common and familiar of all waterbirds (waterfowl). A duck appends much of its time swimming and so it has a light, buoyant body with a thick layer of waterproof feathers, and webbed feet to push itself along the surface or swim beneath. The dabbling or dipping ducks are the largest duck group. They dabble their backs at the surface or ‘up-end’ so the head and neck are under the water with the tail pointing straight up into the air. Dabblers include the mallard, wigeon and teal. Other ducks, such as the pochard and tufted duck, dive and swim deeper under the water to feed.