Likely Mallard (wild Mallard or domestic Mallard-derived duck); exact identification is uncertain from this small feather.

The image shows a narrow, dark teal feather with a glossy sheen, held in a person’s hand. Mallards are familiar dabbling ducks; males typically have a green head and curled tail feathers, while females are mottled brown.

Dark blue-green to teal, glossy and apparently iridescent, with darker edges; lighting may affect the apparent hue. No clear barring or spots are visible.

Compact, smooth pennaceous vane with interlocking barbs; fine barbule details and any aftershaft are not visible.

A slender, dark central rachis runs nearly the feather’s length; barbs appear closely packed, with no obvious contrasting bands.

Smooth, sleek, and reflective, with a firm-looking vane; surface texture cannot be assessed by touch from the image.

Probably a wing covert, based on its small size and blue-green iridescence, but this is not diagnostic on its own.

The small, tapered form and blue-green sheen suggest an iridescent duck feather, but the image lacks distinctive markings needed for confident species identification.

If Mallard, it uses lakes, ponds, marshes, rivers, and urban wetlands, feeding in shallow water and nesting in concealed ground vegetation.

Mallards occur across much of the Northern Hemisphere; many populations migrate, while others are resident. Introduced or feral birds occur widely beyond their native range.

Mallards graze and feed on aquatic invertebrates and plants, serving as prey and contributing to wetland nutrient cycling. The species is widespread, though local wetland loss and hunting pressure can affect populations.

Other ducks, including teal and domestic Mallard-derived breeds, can show similar iridescent wing feathers; full feather patterns and locality are needed to distinguish them.

Mallards dabble by tipping forward to feed underwater and are ancestors of many domestic duck breeds.

Duck feathers have historically been used for bedding, clothing, and fly tying. Wild-bird feather possession and trade may be regulated; check local laws before keeping or using specimens.

Compare a found feather with complete wing-covert references and note its length, shape, and nearby tracks or waterfowl. Avoid identifying a duck species from iridescence alone.

Appears largely intact, with no obvious major breakage; age, molt stage, and subtle wear are not assessable.