Shallow spring wetlands, technically called ephemeral or temporary wetlands, are shallow depressions in the prairie landscape. Because they are shallow, they warm with the first hint of spring and melt before all others. They also trap melting snow and runoff. These wetlands are critical for attracting early-arriving ducks to settle in an area and are very important food sources. Some are deep and will hold water throughout the year, while some are very shallow and will hold water for only a month or two.
Pintails have a love-hate relationship with spring wetlands.
Historically, pintail numbers tracked wetland numbers very well in the prairies. When the prairies were wet, in prime condition, and covered with spring wetlands, pintail numbers were high. But, when drier times occurred and fewer spring wetlands existed, pintail numbers were low. Pintails have several characteristics that set them apart from other ducks. All this allows a hen pintail to produce ducklings in about nine weeks, compared to about 11 weeks needed by a mallard hen.