Mallard (Wild Duck, Greenhead)

The Mallard is the most familiar and abundant wild duck in the world. The adult male (drake) is easily recognized by its glossy bottle-green head, white collar, chestnut-brown chest, and signature curled tail feathers. The featured secondary flight feather showcases the brilliant iridescent speculum band that flashes during flight.

Striking iridescent metallic green and blue central patch (speculum) bordered proximally and distally by distinct white bands, with brown and grey vane areas surrounding it.

Strongly pennaceous through the upper colored and iridescent sections, transitioning to plumulaceous (fluffy down) near the base where it attaches to the wing.

Smooth and glossy across the iridescent speculum region, becoming soft and fluffy at the proximal base where plumulaceous barbs predominate.

Brilliant metallic green-blue iridescent patch bordered by distinct white stripes on a broad, rounded secondary flight feather.

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

Widespread across temperate and subtropical regions of North America, Europe, Asia, and introduced globally to New Zealand and Australia.

Acts as an important seed disperser for aquatic plants, a key food source for various predators, and an ecological indicator of wetland health.

American Black Duck and Northern Pintail, though their wing speculum patterns and coloration differ slightly.

Mallards are the primary ancestor of nearly all domestic duck breeds. Their famous 'quack' is actually only produced by females; males make a quieter, muffled rasping sound.

Good condition with intact barbs and vibrant iridescence, showing minimal wear or fraying.