Mallard (Wild Duck)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Anseriformes, Family: Anatidae, Genus: Anas, Species: A. platyrhynchos
Family: Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Swans)
- Shape
- Symmetrical vane with a rounded tip and overall oval-elongated outline
- Size
- Approximately 2 to 3 inches long, consistent with a medium-sized body or scapular contour feather of a duck
- Rarity
- Very Common
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Description
A classic small brown contour feather from a Mallard duck, featuring a smooth, water-repellent surface designed to protect the bird from moisture and cold
Colour & Pattern
Uniform dark brown to grayish-brown coloration with subtle lighter edging, characteristic of female mallard or non-breeding plumage
Barb Structure
Pennaceous at the upper exposed tip transitioning to plumulaceous (fluffy) at the base, with intact barbs and a well-developed afterfeather
Texture & Surface
Smooth, slightly oily to the touch for water resistance, with a matte appearance
Key Features
Uniform dark grayish-brown color, oval rounded shape, flexible whitish rachis, and water-resistant texture
Habitat
Wetlands, marshes, lakes, ponds, rivers, and agricultural fields across various temperate and subtropical regions
Geographic Range
Widespread throughout the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, Asia, and introduced to parts of the Southern Hemisphere like Australia and New Zealand
Ecological Role
Important prey species for various predators, seed disperser in aquatic ecosystems, and vital component of wetland food webs
Similar Species
Other dabbling duck species such as American Black Duck or Gadwall, which share similar brown contour feather morphologies
Interesting Facts
Mallards are the ancestors of almost all domestic duck breeds and possess specialized preen glands to oil their feathers for waterproofing
Condition Notes
Good condition with intact barbs and minimal signs of wear or fading