Domestic Mallard
NameDomestic Mallard
Common NameMallard Duck
Scientific NameAnas platyrhynchos
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)90
Length (cm)57.5
Weight (g)1150
Plumage DetailsWild Mallard drakes typically have an iridescent green head, white neck ring, chestnut breast, and grey body, while hens are mottled brown. Domestic Mallards, like the one pictured, exhibit a wide array of plumage variations, including pied patterns of white and dark feathers, and often a prominent crest of feathers on the head.
Vocalization / CallFemale Mallards are known for their loud, descending 'quack-quack-quack-quack' call. Males have a softer, reedy 'rab-rab' or 'quack' sound.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetlands, ponds, lakes, rivers, marshes, parks, urban areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWild Mallards are found across the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia, and have been introduced to other parts of the world. Domestic forms are kept globally.
Identifying Featuresprominent crest of feathers, pied plumage (white and dark patches), yellow bill with dark markings, dabbling behavior, stocky body
Description
The Mallard is a widespread dabbling duck known for its adaptability to various aquatic environments. This particular individual is a domestic variant, characterized by its distinctive crest and pied plumage, a result of selective breeding from its wild ancestors.
