Mallard (Wild Duck)

The Mallard is the most familiar and abundant wild duck in the world. The male features a striking glossy green head, white neck ring, chestnut breast, and yellowish bill, while the female is a mottled brownish color providing camouflage while nesting. They are dabbling ducks, tipping up in the water to feed on aquatic plants and insects.

Muted grayish-brown coloration with fine, indistinct darker stippling or vermiculation typical of female or non-breeding plumage.

Plumulaceous and intermediate structure; loose, flexible barbs lacking rigid interlocking hooklets along most of the length, creating a fluffy texture.

Soft, silky, and very fluffy to the touch with little rigidity, designed for trapping air and providing thermal insulation.

Fluffy, soft barb structure combined with grayish-brown vermiculated tones characteristic of dabbling duck body and flank feathers.

Wetlands, marshes, lakes, rivers, ponds, agricultural fields, and urban parks with access to bodies of water.

Widespread across the temperate and subtropical regions of North America, Europe, Asia, and introduced to parts of the Southern Hemisphere.

Acts as an important seed disperser for aquatic plants and serves as a major food source for various wetland predators.

Other dabbling ducks such as American Black Duck or Gadwall, whose body feathers share similar soft, brownish mottled patterns.

Mallards are considered the ancestor of almost all domestic duck breeds. They are highly adaptable and frequently interbreed with other duck species.

Good condition; intact barbs with normal wear for a naturally molted body feather.