What type of animals live in shallow ponds or marshes and spring into the air to fly?

Puddle ducks are specifically adapted to live in shallow waters such as ponds or marshes. They have a unique feeding behavior, often dabbling on the water's surface or tipping their bodies to reach underwater vegetation. This habitat preference allows them to thrive in environments where the water is not too deep.

Moreover, puddle ducks are known for their ability to take off directly from the water's surface, springing into the air quickly when startled or when they need to escape from predators. Their body structure, which is generally lighter compared to other types of ducks, facilitates this kind of takeoff.

In contrast, diving ducks prefer deeper waters and have physical adaptations that allow them to dive underwater in search of food. Wood ducks also inhabit wooded swamps and prefer to nest in trees, while sea ducks are typically found in oceanic habitats, showcasing a significant difference in their environment and behavior compared to puddle ducks. Thus, puddle ducks stand out as the correct answer based on their specific traits and habitat choices.