Mallard (Wild Duck)

The Mallard is the most familiar and abundant wild duck in the world. Known for the iconic iridescent green head of the male and the mottled brown camouflage of the female, they are dabbling ducks that feed by tipping up in the water rather than diving.

Rich dark brown to grayish-brown with subtle vermiculation and lighter brown edging, typical of female Mallard or non-breeding plumage coloration

Upper portion is tightly interlocked and pennaceous, while the base features softer, plumulaceous barbs with a small, wispy afterfeather

Smooth, slightly oily to the touch for natural waterproofing, with a matte finish and flexible vane

Subtly vermiculated grayish-brown tones, rounded tip, flexible shaft, and slightly oily water-resistant texture typical of anatid body feathers

Wetlands, marshes, rivers, lakes, ponds, agricultural fields, and urban parks with access to open water

Widespread across the temperate and subtropical Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa; highly adaptable and largely migratory in northern ranges

Acts as an important seed disperser for aquatic plants, serves as prey for various raptors and mammals, and helps cycle nutrients in wetland ecosystems

Other dabbling ducks such as American Black Duck, Gadwall, or Northern Pintail, whose female body feathers share similar vermiculated brown patterns

Mallards are the ancestors of almost all domestic duck breeds. They are exceptionally strong flyers, reaching speeds of up to 60 mph during migration.

Good condition, intact barbs, clean appearance with minimal wear or fading