Mallard Duck (Wild Duck)

A secondary wing feather from a Mallard. Mallards are large dabbling ducks where males (drakes) feature glossy green heads and white neck rings, while females (hens) are mottled brown. This feather likely belongs to a female or is a non-speculum secondary from a male.

Dark brownish-grey or soot-colored overall. Note the slight sheen on the outer vane which, in specific lighting, can show hints of the blue-purple iridescent speculum characteristic of the species. The underside is a paler silvery-grey.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs on the distal portion for aerodynamic integrity; plumulaceous (downy) structure at the base for insulation.

Smooth and somewhat oily/water-repellent surface due to preening with uropygial gland oils; the vane is stiff yet flexible enough for flight.

Asymmetrical shape, dark greyish-brown coloration, rounded tip, and a thick, rigid white calamus (quill base).

Versatile wetlands, including ponds, lakes, rivers, marshes, estuaries, and urban parks.

Widespread throughout the Northern Hemisphere (North America, Europe, Asia) and introduced to Australia, New Zealand, and South America. Highly migratory in northern regions.

Generalist consumer that disperses aquatic plant seeds; serves as a primary prey species for various birds of prey and mammalian carnivores.

Black Duck (Anas rubripes) which is darker, or Gadwall (Mareca strepera) which has more white in the secondaries.

Mallards are the ancestors of almost all domestic duck breeds. They are known for 'dabbling,' where they tip head-first into water to feed on aquatic plants and invertebrates.

Good condition; slight fraying at the trailing edge indicates moderate wear. No visible fault bars or parasite damage.