Mallard (Wild Duck)

The Mallard is the most familiar and abundant wild duck in the world. Known for the iconic glossy green head of the male and the mottled brown camouflage of the female, they are dabbling ducks that feed primarily on plant matter and small aquatic invertebrates by tipping up rather than diving.

Graduated brown and grayish tones with lighter frosting or barring characteristic of female Mallard cryptic plumage.

Pennaceous at the upper exposed tip transitioning into a soft, plumulaceous (downy) base near the calamus, with intact barbs and standard interlocked barbicels.

Smooth, slightly oily texture with a water-repellent surface and matte appearance.

Mottled brown and buff patterning with a soft, fluffy downy base and a smooth, waterproof pennaceous tip.

Found in a wide variety of wetlands, including marshes, lakes, ponds, rivers, and agricultural fields across temperate regions.

Widespread across the Northern Hemisphere, inhabiting North America, Europe, Asia, and introduced to parts of the Southern Hemisphere like Australia and New Zealand.

Acts as an important seed disperser for aquatic plants and serves as a major food source for various mammalian and avian predators.

Other dabbling ducks such as American Black Duck or Gadwall females, which share similar mottled brown body plumage.

Mallards are the primary ancestor of nearly all domestic duck breeds. Their specialized uropygial (preen) gland produces oil that they spread over their feathers to maintain waterproofing.

Good condition, fresh appearance with intact barbs and no major structural damage or excessive wear.