Mallard (Wild Duck)

This is a signature speculum feather from a Mallard. The Mallard is a large dabbling duck where the male (drake) has a green head and yellow bill, and the female is mottled brown. They are famous for their adaptable behavior and loud quacking.

Strikingly bicolored with an iridescent cobalt blue to violet-purple distal half, a distinct black subterminal band, and a crisp white terminal tip. The proximal part is grayish-brown.

Densely interlocked pennaceous barbs on the distal portion to maintain an airtight wing surface; plumulaceous (downy) at the base for insulation.

Smooth, firm, and oily. The iridescent section has a glossy, metallic sheen, while the white tip is matte and soft. The feather is notably waterproof.

The combination of iridescent blue-violet coloration, a black border, and a broad white tip is diagnostic for Anas platyrhynchos.

Found in almost any wetland habitat, including lakes, ponds, rivers, marshes, and urban park ponds like Wicksteed Park.

Widespread across the Northern Hemisphere; resident and migratory populations throughout Europe, North America, and Asia.

Dabbling ducks act as important seed dispersers and are a primary prey source for large raptors and mammalian predators.

American Black Duck (darker blue, no white leading edge), Teal species (typically smaller with green speculums), Gadwall (white and black speculum).

Mallards are the ancestors of almost all domestic duck breeds. Their iridescent wing patch helps individuals recognize each other during flight and courtship.

The feather appears to be in good condition with minor fraying at the base; likely a naturally molted feather (post-breeding molt).

Wicksteed park