Why do ducks float?

1. 1

   Lue says

   A duck is wrapped in lots of feathers that hook together snugly. Tucked between them are little pockets of air. Air is very light, so all that trapped air helps hold the duck up. Inside, a duck has air sacs like little balloons too. That's why a duck bobs on top of the pond.

   For ages 4–7
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   Checked against Ducks float, don't they? (Wisconsin Waterfowl Association, Words from the Wardens)

2. 2

   Why don't a duck's feathers get soggy?

   Near its tail, a duck has a tiny spot that makes oil. The duck rubs the oil all over its feathers with its beak. That's called preening. The oil coats the tiny hooks that zip each feather together, so water rolls off and the air stays tucked inside.

   For ages 6–9
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   Checked against What actually makes water roll off a duck's back? (KQED Deep Look)

3. 3

   Then how does a duck dive under?

   When a duck wants to dive, it presses its feathers flat against its body. That squeezes the trapped air out, so it isn't held up as much, and down it goes. Back on top, it gives its feathers a good shake to fluff them up and trap air again.

   For ages 8–11
   Hear Lue

   Checked against Ducks float, don't they? (Wisconsin Waterfowl Association, Words from the Wardens)

In Lil' Phil, reaching the bottom of this wonder earns a sticker for Lue's collection.

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  Ages 4–11Lue
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  Ages 4–9Lue