Although many different nest structures have been tried, experience has shown that wood ducks prefer the basic box structure or designs with similar dimensions. The following are tried and true designs for wood duck houses. Unlike most of the mallard or goose nesting structures, wood duck boxes are also used by other ducks such as hooded mergansers, goldeneyes and buffleheads. In addition, squirrels, starlings, swallows, owls, kestrels and woodpeckers, often compete with hen wood ducks for these nest sites. It is critical to erect boxes properly, with predator guards if necessary, so that they don't become death traps for the nesting hens.
Annual maintenance is the key to consistent, successful use.