Mallard (Wild Duck)

The Mallard is the most familiar and abundant wild duck in the world. Males (drakes) feature a brilliant glossy green head, a white neck ring, chestnut-brown chest, and gray flanks, while females are a mottled brown camouflage. They are highly adaptable dabbling ducks known for tipping up to feed on aquatic plants and invertebrates.

Striking structural iridescence showing deep metallic blue and green tones across the upper vane, transitioning to darker grayish-brown bars and a pale whitish-clear calamus at the base.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous structure in the upper colored section with a plumulaceous (fluffy) base near the calamus. Barbs are intact and well-developed.

Smooth, slightly oily to the touch for waterproofing, with a glossy, light-reflecting surface on the iridescent portion and a soft texture near the base.

Distinctive metallic blue-green iridescence combined with a rounded contour shape and a fluffy plumulaceous base.

Found in a wide variety of wetlands, including marshes, rivers, lakes, ponds, agricultural fields, and urban parks.

Widespread across temperate and subtropical North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of the Southern Hemisphere as introduced populations.

Acts as an important seed disperser for aquatic plants, a prey species for various raptors and mammals, and an indicator of wetland ecosystem health.

Other dabbling ducks such as the American Black Duck or Northern Pintail, which may lack the specific vivid blue-green speculum feather pattern.

Mallards are the ancestors of almost all domestic duck breeds. Their iridescent wing patches, known as speculums, help with species recognition during flight.

Excellent condition with intact barbs, bright coloration, and no signs of heavy wear, fading, or parasitic damage.