Mallard (Dabbling Duck)

A classic 'duck' body feather from a Mallard. Mallards are large-bodied dabbling ducks; males feature iconic green heads while females are mottled brown. This feather likely came from the lighter underparts of either a female or a male in eclipse plumage.

Predominantly white to pale silver-grey with subtle vermiculation (fine wavy lines). The tip shows a faint brownish or greyish wash typical of female or non-breeding plumage.

Pennaceous at the distal (top) half for water repellency, becoming plumulaceous (fluffy) at the proximal base for insulation.

Smooth and velvety on the upper surface; oily/waxy coating provides crucial waterproofing; semi-glossy appearance.

Broad ovate shape, white-to-greyish coloration, fine vermiculation patterns, and a highly downy base for aquatic insulation.

Varied wetland environments including ponds, lakes, rivers, marshes, and urban parks with accessible water.

Widespread across the Northern Hemisphere (North America, Europe, Asia); introduced to Australia and South America; partially migratory.

Generalist consumer; helps disperse aquatic plant seeds and serves as a major food source for various predators.

American Black Duck (darker), Northern Pintail (more elongated), or Gadwall (different vermiculation scale).

Mallards are the ancestors of almost all domestic duck breeds. They are 'dabblers,' meaning they feed by tipping tail-up in the water rather than diving.

Fair to Good; shows some water saturation (clumping) and minor vane separation near the tip typical of a naturally shed/molted feather found in water.