Mallard (Wild Duck)

This feather belongs to the Mallard, a large dabbling duck. Drakes (males) are famous for their iridescent green heads, which this feather likely originated from or near. The bird features a yellow bill, white neck ring, and a characteristic blue speculum on the wing.

Dusky brownish-black base transitioning to a vibrant, iridescent structural emerald green or teal-blue distal edge. No distinct banding; iridescence changes with light angle.

Pennaceous (interlocked) on the distal half for water repellency, transition to plumulaceous (downy) at the base for insulation.

Smooth, glossy, and oily to the touch on the iridescent portion; soft and downy at the proximal base.

Distinctive iridescent green/blue distal band on a dark grey-brown base; broad, rounded profile; plumulaceous base indicating a body contour feather.

Stagnant or slow-moving freshwater wetlands, lakes, rivers, city parks, and occasional coastal estuaries.

Holarctic distribution; year-round resident throughout much of North America, Europe, and Asia; northern populations are migratory.

Primary consumer/omnivore; helps distribute aquatic seeds and serves as a major prey source for raptors and carnivorous mammals.

Northern Shoveler (smaller, different iridescence), Wood Duck (more complex patterns), or Mexican Duck (lacks distinct green iridescence).

The iridescent color is structural, caused by the microscopic shape of the feathers reflecting light rather than pigment. Mallards are the ancestors of almost all domestic duck breeds.

Good condition; the distal edge shows slight wear/fraying (visible on the left side), likely from preening or environmental contact.