Mallard Duck
NameMallard Duck
Common NameMallard
Scientific NameAnas platyrhynchos
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)89.5
Length (cm)57.5
Weight (g)1150
Plumage DetailsAdult males (drakes) have a distinctive iridescent green head, a white neck ring, a chestnut breast, grey flanks, and a black rear with curled central tail feathers. Adult females (hens) are mottled brown with an orange bill often marked with black. Both sexes have an iridescent blue speculum (wing patch) bordered by white. Ducklings, as pictured, are downy with yellow underparts, a dark brown cap, and a dark stripe through the eye.
Vocalization / CallFemales produce a loud, descending series of 'quacks'. Males have a softer, reedy 'rab-rab' or 'kwek' sound, often accompanied by a whistle.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetlands, ponds, lakes, rivers, marshes, parks, urban areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeGlobally widespread across the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Also found in parts of Australia and New Zealand where it has been introduced.
Identifying FeaturesGreen head (male), Mottled brown plumage (female), Iridescent blue speculum on wings, Orange legs and feet, Dabbling feeding behavior, Ducklings with yellow and brown striped pattern
Description
The Mallard is a common and widespread dabbling duck, known for its adaptability to various aquatic environments. Males are strikingly colored with a glossy green head, while females are mottled brown, and both are often seen foraging in shallow waters or resting on banks.
