Mallard (Wild Duck, Common Mallard)

The Mallard is the most familiar and widespread wild duck in the world. Known for the iconic glossy green head of the drake, females feature a mottled brown plumage that provides camouflage while nesting. This contour feather exhibits the fine, intricate penciling and vermiculation characteristic of female side and breast feathers.

Delicate grayish-brown vermiculations and barring on a pale off-white to light gray background, typical of a female or non-breeding plumaged Mallard flank/breast feather

Pennaceous upper vane with tightly interlocked barbicels, transitioning smoothly into a plumulaceous (fluffy, downy) base without hooklets

Smooth and firm at the distal pennaceous tip, transitioning to a soft, fluffy, insulating texture at the proximal base

Delicate grey-brown wavy barring (vermiculation) on a pale background with a soft, fluffy downy base

Wetlands, marshes, lakes, ponds, rivers, and urban parks with water bodies

Widespread across the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, Asia, and introduced to places like New Zealand and Australia

Important herbivore and seed disperser in aquatic ecosystems, serving as a vital food source for numerous mammalian and avian predators

Other dabbling ducks such as Northern Pintail, Gadwall, or American Black Duck, distinguished by specific finer details of vermiculation and coloration

Mallards are the ancestor of nearly all domestic duck breeds. They are highly adaptable and form strong pair bonds during the breeding season.

Good condition, barbs intact with minimal wear, clean and showing no major signs of fading or damage

West Allis, Wi found in my alley