Baby ducks are called ducklings, and a group of ducklings being cared for by their mother is called a brood. A group of ducks in flight is referred to as a flock. On the water the group is a raft.
The first two weeks of a duckling's life are the most critical to its survival. During this time, ducklings depend on their mother to keep them safe from predators, to feed them, to keep them warm and to create a family bond. During migration, she guides them to a habitat suitable for winter dwelling, such as southern coastal waters near the Mississippi or along the central coast of California.
