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Ducks
 
                        DUCK, name collectively applied to numerous species of birds of the
                        waterfowl family Anatidae. Ducks differ from geese and swans of the
                        same family by their shorter necks and legs and other anatomical
                        differences. Ducks inhabit all continents except Antarctica and most of
                        the world?s islands. The legs of most ducks are placed far apart and
                        toward the rear, making them awkward walkers but efficient swimmers. 
                        The underplumage, or down, which is buoyant and insulating, is kept
                        water-resistant by frequent preening with oil from a gland, called the 
                        uropygial gland, at the base of the tail feathers. Ducks, with the exception 
                        of mergansers, have spatulate bills lined with bony notches, or lamellae, 
                        for straining plant and animal matter from water.