Waterfowl migration maps, duck counts, and hunting reports. Your ultimate resource for tracking the waterfowl migration throughout the season.
Duck Migration Report for 11/22/2022
Duck Migration Report 01/02/23
Duck Migration Map
Duck Migration Map for 01/02/2023
Map Key:
Green= Increase in duck population counts from 12/11/2022 to 01/02/2023
Red: Decrease in duck population counts from 12/11/2022 to 01/02/2023
% = Percent change from 12/11/2022 to 01/02/2023
Notable migration updates:
- Iowa and Missouri losing ducks: When looking at the map above, it’s fairly easy to see that the vast majority of ducks in the flyway have made their south into Arkansas. Iowa, Missouri, and Illinois are far past their peak migration numbers.
- Arkansas close to peak numbers earlier this season: The combined areas in Arkansas are reporting 1,136,558 ducks in the state. Last year’s peak migration count was 1,136,188 and didn’t occur until late January.
See our sited sources
Where are the Ducks Right Now
Current map showing areas with the highest density of duck counts as of 01/02/2023
Migration Density Map Key:
Dark Green = highest number of ducks: (50k+)
Light Green = 2nd highest: (25k-50k)
Yellow = moderate: (10k-25k)
Orange = 2nd lowest (5k-10k)
Red = lowest (less than 5k)
Key Duck Migration Count Changes:
Check out the table below to see how current migration populations are stacking up compared to last year at this time:
| State | 2021 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 81,984 | 5,456 |
| Illinois | 606,350 | 541,985 |
| Missouri | 460,936 | 41,739 |
| Arkansas | 961,247 | 1,136,558 |
How close to peak duck migration?
| State | 2021 Duck Migration Peak | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 190,620 | 11/19/2021 |
| Illinois | 883,720 | 12/2/2021 |
| Missouri | 888,718 | 12/15/2021 |
| Arkansas | 1,136,188 | 01/21/2022 |
See our sited sources
Duck Migration Report for 11/22/2022
Duck Migration Report for 12/11/2022
Duck Migration Map
Duck Migration Map for 12/11/22
Map Key:
Green= Increase in duck population counts from 11/22/2022 to 12/11/022
Red: Decrease in duck population counts from 11/22/2022 to 12/11/2022
% = Percent change from 11/22/2022 to 12/11/2022
Notable migration updates:
- Iowa losing birds: Only 2 Iowa counties are reporting an increase in duck migration counts over the past two weeks while all others are reporting large declines. This decrease may not be significant to Iowa hunters given that the season in the state is winding down, but waterfowlers south of the state might be interested to see that the last major push of this years migration is making it’s way down the flyway.
- Large number of ducks along the Mississippi River, but they’ve been there a while: When looking at the map above, it’s easy to see the vast concentration green along the Mississippi River. But a closer look reveals that although they are reporting increases in those areas, the percentage of change isn’t much. We are hearing several reports of “very stale” birds in those areas.
See our sited sources
Where are the Ducks Right Now
Current map showing areas with the highest density of duck counts as of 12/11/2022
Migration Density Map Key:
Dark Green = highest number of ducks: (50k+)
Light Green = 2nd highest: (25k-50k)
Yellow = moderate: (10k-25k)
Orange = 2nd lowest (5k-10k)
Red = lowest (less than 5k)
Key Duck Migration Count Changes:
Check out the table below to see how current migration populations are stacking up compared to last year at this time:
| State | 2021 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 115958 | 95473 |
| Illinois | 835235 | 730945 |
| Missouri | 848855 | 9077214 |
| Kentucky | 35464 | 53723 |
How close to peak duck migration?
| State | 2021 Duck Migration Peak | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 190,620 | 11/19/2021 |
| Illinois | 883,720 | 12/2/2021 |
| Missouri | 888,718 | 12/15/2021 |
| Kentucky | 51,888 | 12/16/2021 |
See our sited sources
Mallard Migration Update 12/10/2022
Desoto National Wildlife Refuge (located along the Missouri River in northeastern Nebraska and northwestern Iowa) is reporting Mallard migration counts at 6,540. This is down significantly from last season at this time (27,858), and well off the 6 year average of 32,972.
While not great news, the chart above may provide some insight as to the remainder of the migration for this season: Historically, Desoto has experienced a “lull” in the Mallard migration right around this time each season, with a substantial bounce back during the 3rd week in December.
That being said, the area has yet to even come close to its average peak Mallard counts this season. Over the past 6 years, the average peak is 34,703 (3rd week in November), and the most Mallards they have held so far this year is 22,660 (4th week in November). This indicates one of two scenarios: 1. There are still several Mallards north of the area that will provide opportunities for hunters south of Desoto, or 2. Desoto was a “fly-over” area this year and might not see another large push of Mallards for the remainder of the season.
Our take: We feel that Desoto was a “fly-over” spot this year for three primary reasons:
- Desoto and areas north of the region froze up earlier in the season than is typical. This caused many of the ducks to continue flying south until finding open water.
- Other than 10 green winged teal, 2 pintails, and 3 wigeons, Mallards are the only species of ducks holding in the area at this time.
- During the 3rd week of November this season (which has historically been Desoto’s peak duck migration counts), Loess Bluffs located in northwestern Missouri along the Missouri river, reported huge Mallard migration counts. They were holding more than 94,000 Mallards that week, while their historical average season peak is 65,062.
Given this data, we’re fairly certain the ducks holding in Missouri and along the Mississippi River in Illinois are the tail end of the duck migration for this season.
Mallard Migration Update 12/9/2022
The Mississippi River Valley running between Missouri and Illinois is currently reporting 218,715 Mallards in the area. This is below the 10 year average of 280,427 for this time of year. Historically, the area has reached peak Mallard migration during the 2nd and 3rd weeks in December, with the 10 year average peak count at 311,267. If the area continues to follow historical trends as it has so far this season, we can expect great hunting opportunities this week and next.
That being said, in the past, Mallard counts in the area typically start declining significantly during the 4th week in December. If you hunt in the northeastern section of Missouri or the northwestern section of Illinois, the next two weeks could be prime time!
Also good news for those who hunt the central and southern portion of those states: The Mallard migration seems to be slightly behind schedule this year when compared to past years. This may mean extended quality hunting later in the season than usual.
Note: We did not receive migration estimates from reliable sources for this area for the 4th week of November, so it’s difficult to determine the change in Mallard activity compared to last week.
Mallard Migration Update 12/1/2022
A week ago, Loess Bluffs (located in northwest Missouri along the Missouri River) was reporting more Mallards in the area (94,000) than were present at any time throughout last season! Peak Mallard migration count (highest count throughout the season) for last year was 69,865, and the 4-year average peak is 65,062.
Now (11/28/2022) the area is reporting 76,615 migrating Mallards, a slight decrease from the previous week, but right in line with its 4-year average of 76,853. This is slightly more than last seasons report for this week (57,220).
As shown in the chart above, there’re still plenty of ducks in northwest Missouri, but it appears it’s past the halfway point of this season’s Mallard migration. When looking closely at the 4-year average numbers: Loess Bluffs usually has 1-2 weeks of solid mallard counts after it reaches peak migration, but after that, it drops off significantly. Given that areas north of Loess Bluff are signaling they aren’t holding as many mallards as they typically do this time of year, this may mean we’re on the tail end of the season so get out there and hunt!
Duck Migration Report for 11/22/2022
Duck Migration Report 11/22/2022
Duck Migration Map
Migration Duck Count Changes from 11/3/2022-11/22/2022
Map Key:
Green= Increase in duck population counts from 11/3/2022 to 11/22/2022
Red: Decrease in duck population counts from 11/3/2022 to 11/22/2022
% = Percent change from 11/3/2022 to 11/22/2022
Notable migration updates:
- Every county in Missouri and Illinois are seeing an increase in duck migration counts. Iowa as a whole however went from 146,907 ducks one week ago, to now reporting 126,906 across the entire state. Last week, 58% of the ducks in Iowa were Mallards, that number now stands at 75%. This is a good indication that the major push of big ducks is making its way through the flyway.
- The state of Missouri has seen an increase from 162,087 during our last report, to 841,794 as of most recent. This is a good sign that we may be at peak numbers for the state, given that last year the highest recorded migration count total was 888,718 on December 15th.
See our sited sources
Where are the Ducks Right Now
Current map showing areas with the highest density of duck counts as of 11/22/2022
Migration Density Map Key:
Dark Green = highest number of ducks: (50k+)
Light Green = 2nd highest: (25k-50k)
Yellow = moderate: (10k-25k)
Orange = 2nd lowest (5k-10k)
Red = lowest (less than 5k)
Key Duck Migration Count Changes:
Check out the table below to see how current migration populations are stacking up compared to last year at this time:
| State | 2021 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 190,620 | 146,907 |
| Illinois | 853,765 | 746,560 |
| Missouri | 585,956 | 841,794 |
| Kentucky | 5,787 | 4,720 |
How close to peak duck migration?
| State | 2021 Duck Migration Peak | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 190,620 | 11/19/2021 |
| Illinois | 883,720 | 12/2/2021 |
| Missouri | 888,718 | 12/15/2021 |
| Kentucky | 51,888 | 12/16/2021 |
- While warmer weather early in the season may have delayed the migration when compared to previous years, it’s fairly evident that this recent cold front has brought the ducks further down the flyway in a hurry!
See our sited sources
Duck Migration Report for 11/3/2022
Duck Migration Map
Migration Duck Count Changes from 10/22/2022-11/3/2022
Map Key:
Green= Increase in duck population counts from 10/22/2022 to 11/3/2022
Red: Decrease in duck population counts from 10/22/2022 to 11/3/2022
% = Percent change from 10/22/2022 to 11/3/2022
Notable migration reports:
- We are finally seeing some major migration movements in the northern section of the Mississippi flyway. As shown in the map above, the vast majority of the areas are reporting a nice size increase in duck counts.
- The state of Iowa is reporting not only an increase in blue-winged teal (+61%), but also showing other ducks have migrated into the areas. Pintail numbers are up 99% and mallards are up 54%.
See our sited sources
Where are the Ducks Right Now
Current map showing areas with the highest density of duck counts as of 11/3/2022
Migration Density Map Key:
Dark Green = highest number of ducks: (50k+)
Light Green = 2nd highest: (25k-50k)
Yellow = moderate: (10k-25k)
Orange = 2nd lowest (5k-10k)
Red = lowest (less than 5k)
Key Duck Migration Count Changes:
Check out the table below to see how current migration populations are stacking up compared to last year at this time:
| State | 2021 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 46,063 | 82,138 |
| Illinois | 531,170 | 358,155 |
| Missouri | 435,744 | 162,087 |
- It’s clear to see in the table above that the migration has started later this year. Iowa is holding about twice the number of ducks that it did at this time last year, while Missouri and Illinois numbers are down significantly.
See our sited sources
Duck Migration Report for 10/22/2022
Duck Migration Map
Migration Duck Count Changes from 10/7/2022-10/22/2022
Map Key:
Green= Increase in duck population counts from 10/7/2022 to 10/22/2022
Red: Decrease in duck population counts from 10/7/2022 to 10/22/2022
% = Percent change from 10/7/2022 to 10/22/2022
Notable migration reports:
- As shown in the map above, over the past 3 weeks there have been several ducks migrate into Missouri River area along the Illinois/Iowa and Missouri border. Almost all reports in these areas are showing a 100% increase or more!
- The state of Iowa as a whole is reporting an overall increase of 74.7% of ducks in the state!
See our sited sources
Where are the Ducks Right Now
Current map showing areas with the highest density of duck counts as of 10/22/2022
Dark Green = More than 10,000 ducks
Light Green = Between 1,000 and 10,000 ducks
Yellow = Less than 1,000 ducks
Key Duck Migration Count Changes:
- Since 10/7/22: As a whole, the state of Illinois as increased its overall duck count by 79.6%
- This update includes the first trusted reports we have received from Missouri this year. While not all areas are reporting yet, the overall summary seems to be that numbers are down a bit for this time of year when compared to previous seasons. Hopefully the rain that the state is receiving this week will help push the migration counts up.
See our sited sources
Duck Migration Report for 9/22/2022
Duck Migration Map
Migration Duck Count Changes from 9/12/2022-9/22/2022
Map Key:
Green= Increase in duck population counts from 9/12/2022 to 9/22/2022
Red: Decrease in duck population counts from 9/12/2022 to 9/22/2022
% = Percent change from 9/12/2022 to 9/22/2022
Notable migration reports:
- There’s been a large increase in the overall number in migration duck counts in the flyway, particularly along the western edge of Iowa and eastern edge of Illinois along the Mississippi River.
- Since 9/12/2022: The state of Iowa as a whole has increased it’s overall percentage of blue-winged teal to 41% vs the 32% during our last update. This is a great indicator that there are more teal still up north and continuing to make their way south throughout the flyway.
See our sited sources
Where are the Ducks Right Now
Current map showing areas with the highest density of duck counts as of 9/22/2022
Dark Green = More than 5000 ducks
Light Green = Between 500 and 5000 ducks
Yellow = Less than 500 ducks
Key Duck Migration Count Changes:
- Since our last update on 9/12/2022: The state of Illinois as a whole has doubled the number of ducks in its combined reporting areas!
- The state of Iowa as a whole is reporting a 53% increase since 9/12/22
See our sited sources
Duck Migration Report for 9/12/2022
Duck Migration Map
Migration Duck Count Changes from 9/1/2022-9/12/2022
Map Key:
Green= Increase in duck population counts from 9/1/2022 to 9/12/2022
Red: Decrease in duck population counts from 9/1/2022 to 9/12/2022
% = Percent change from 9/1/2022 to 9/12/2022
Notable migration reports:
- As of 9/9/2022: Calhoun County Illinois (bordering the Mississippi River) reported a 33% duck count increase over the last 2 weeks
- Fremont County Iowa (bordering the Missouri River along the Southwest side of the state), reported a 288% duck population increase over the last week.
See our sited sources
Where are the Ducks Right Now
Current map showing areas with the highest density of duck counts as of 9/12/2022
Dark Green = More than 5000 ducks
Light Green = Between 500 and 5000 ducks
Yellow = Less than 500 ducks
See our sited sources
Duck Migration Report for 1/10/2022
Duck Migration Map
Migration Duck Count Changes from 12/30/2021 to 1/10/2022
Map Key:
Green= Increase in duck population counts from 12/30/21 to 1/10/2022
Red: Decrease in duck population counts from 12/30/2021 to 1/10/2022
% = Percent change from 12/30/2021 to 1/10/2022
See our sited sources
Where are the Ducks Right Now
Heat map showing areas with the highest density of duck counts as of 1/10/22
Light Green = < 1,000 ducks
Green = 1,000-5,000 ducks
Yellow = 5,000-10,000 ducks
Pink = 10,000-25,000 ducks
Orange = 25,000-50,000
Red = > 50,000 ducks
See our sited sources
Mallard Migration Report
As of 1/11/2022: Loess Bluffs NWR (Located in the Northwest corner of Missouri), reported 80 mallards on the refuge. Needless to say, this is a significant decrease from a week ago when the area was reporting 14,890 mallards. This recent cold snap has driven almost all the ducks South for the winter. The refuge is reporting 99.9% of its habitat is frozen over.
As of 1/7/2022: The Mississippi River Valley (the region running between Missouri and Illinois along the Mississippi River), reported 32,825 mallards in the area. This is SIGNIFICANTLY lower than the area’s 10yr average of 190,300 for this time of year, showing that the migration is progressing much quicker this year than it historically has. Taking all of this into consideration, it should provide some great opportunities for waterfowl hunters in Arkansas.
Visit our sources to see where we gather our data from
Duck Migration Report for 12/30/2021
Duck Migration Map
Migration Duck Count Changes from 12/15/2021 to 12/30/2021
Map Key:
Green= Increase in duck population counts from 12/15/21 to 12/30/2021
Red: Decrease in duck population counts from 12/15/2021 to 12/30/2021
% = Percent change from 12/15/2021 to 12/30/2021
See our sited sources
Where are the Ducks Right Now
Heat map showing areas with highest density of duck counts as of 12/30/21
Light Green = < 1,000 ducks
Green = 1,000-5,000 ducks
Yellow = 5,000-10,000 ducks
Pink = 10,000-25,000 ducks
Orange = 25,000-50,000
Red = > 50,000 ducks
See our sited sources
Mallard Migration Report
As of 12/29/2021: Desoto National Wildlife Refuge: With duck season closed in this part of the country, this update is designed to help hunters south of here take a look at how many birds are still yet to come your way.
- On 12/29/21, Desoto NWR (located in Nebraska and Iowa along the Missouri River) reported their current mallard count at 7,711. This is a decrease of 74% over the last week! Desoto’s 5 yr average for this time of year is 25,503, meaning there’re only 30% of the mallards on the refuge than there usually are for this time in the season.
- This significant decrease in birds since 12/23/21, along with much lower than average populations for this time in the season, most likely indicates that there are very few birds remaining north of Missouri, Illinois, Arkansas, and other states further south in the Mississippi flyway.
| Timeframe | Mallard Counts for Desoto NWR |
|---|---|
| 12/29/2021 | 7,711 |
| 12/23/2021 | 30,588 |
| 5 yr avg for this time of year | 25,503 |
- As of 12/28/21: Mississippi River Valley
- The Mississippi River Valley (the region running between Missouri and Illinois), is showing mallard counts in the area of 178,970, which is a decrease of 11% over the past week. This is very close to its 10 yr average of 179,937 for this time of year, signaling that the mallard migration is looking very similar to what it has in the past. When studying the graph below, we’re seeing that the area is most likely past its peak numbers for this season.
| Timeframe | Mallards in Mississippi River Valley |
|---|---|
| Now (12/28/21) | 178,970 |
| This time last season (2020) | 161,110 |
| 10 yr Average | 179,937 |
- As of 12/14/2021: The Mississippi Alluvial Valley (bordering the eastern side of Arkansas) has come out with their first official waterfowl migration report of the year. The area’s mallard migration count is currently at 326,064. This is 32% lower than the 5 yr average of 429,660 for this time in the season, but up from the 2020 count of 255,052. With several reports showing ducks leaving Iowa and other northern states, we expect Arkansas mallard numbers to continue to climb and soon reach close to their 5 yr average peak of 673,346. Check out our full Arkansas Migration Report for more details.
| Timeframe | Mallards in the MAV (Arkansas) |
|---|---|
| Now (12/14/21) | 326,064 |
| This time last season (2020) | 255,052 |
| 5 yr Average | 429,660 |
Check out our Arkansas duck report for more details
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Visit our sources to see where we gather our data from
Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency
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The Mississippi flyway passes right through Baton Rouge.
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10-31-21:
Waterfowl report for Pointe Coupee parish, LA. Specks have been passing overhead at night in a southwest direction. Only seen coots and blue winged teal on the water so far and the black bellies have headed south for the winter.