Mallard (Wild Duck)

The Mallard is the quintessential dabbling duck, known for the iconic iridescent green head of the drake and the mottled brown camouflage of the hen. This body contour feather showcases the dual nature of duck plumage: a sleek, waterproof upper shield to shed water and a soft, insulating underlayer to maintain body heat.

Rich grayish-brown to warm brown tones with subtle gradient shading, smooth melanin-based pigmentation characteristic of female or eclipse plumage Mallards

Pennaceous at the upper exposed tip providing a smooth water-resistant shield, transitioning to plumulaceous (fluffy, downy) at the base with barbs lacking strong hooklets for thermal insulation

Smooth, slightly oily and water-repellent texture in the pennaceous upper section, soft and fluffy at the base

Rounded tip, smooth brownish vane grading into a fluffy downy base, flexible pale rachis, and water-repellent texture

Found in a wide variety of wetlands, including marshes, lakes, ponds, rivers, agricultural fields, and urban parks

Widespread across the temperate and subtropical Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa; highly adaptable and largely resident or migratory depending on latitude

Acts as an important consumer of aquatic vegetation, seeds, and small invertebrates, serving as a key prey base for various raptors and mammalian predators

Other dabbling ducks such as American Black Duck, Northern Pintail, or Gadwall hens, which share similar brown mottled body plumage

Mallards are the ancestors of almost all domestic duck breeds. Their oil gland (uropygial gland) produces secretions they preen onto their feathers to maintain waterproofing.

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