Ducks, Geese and Swans (Anatidae) The ANSERIFORMES (pronounced
an-ser-ih-FOR-meez), one of the oldest avian orders, is composed
of three families and includes the bizarre and noisy screamers
of South America, the odd Magpie Goose of Australia, and the
globally distributed swans, geese and ducks. The swans, geese
and ducks are grouped in the Anatidae (pronounced ah-NAH-tih-
dee); a bird family with one hundred sixty-four species in
forty-eight genera, various members of which can be found on all
continents. The Anatidae are represented in North America by
sixty-nine species in twenty-three genera (including the extinct
Labrador Duck). Members of this well known bird family include
the graceful, long-necked swans, familiar geese of farm fields
and golf courses, and the many species of ducks. While all
species are known for their association with aquatic habitats,
Canada Geese are also known for their aggressive behavior when
guarding their nests and young. After the breeding season,
Canada Geese become better kn