American Black Ducks were introduced some 30 years ago, although the
population has flutuated over years, the numbers over the last few years
have been in the 70-100.
They readily hybridize with mallards and domestic stock, i believe this
has been there downfall back east along with hunting practices.
The birds are resident to the surounding area, but sometimes during the
winter months a few birds disperse to the south.
They do get fed through the winter months in several locations and this
may have helped in this population's survival.
They do frequent local ponds and like most (anas) species come readily
to handouts.
Under ABA rules these Black Ducks are countable,if this worries you.
SPECIFIC LOCATIONS

The Yellow Point area is located approx 95 km north of Victoria on the
island highway and 10km south of Nanaimo, just south of the Cassidy
Airport.
Turn east onto Yellowpoint Road and proceed approx 8km, from this point
all ponds should be checked for Black Duck.
Woodmont farm ponds near Michael Lake, Quennell Lake and the Crow and
Gate Pub's ponds are the best locations.
My favourite and by far the best location is the pub, enjoy a nice pint
of beer (please remember to let the spouse drive) in a quaint English
pub while watching Black Ducks on the pond.
Hope this helps anybody needing this scarce Pacific Northwest species,
remember this is Canada where the greenback goes a long long way.

Derrick Marven
Duncan B.C.
Canada
home of the hybrid