Mallard

About the Mallard

The Mallard is one of the most recognizable and widespread ducks in North America. Males are known for their glossy green head, yellow bill, and chestnut breast, while females are mottled brown with excellent camouflage. Found on ponds, lakes, rivers, and even city parks, Mallards are adaptable and familiar waterbirds across much of the world.

Fun Facts

• Dabbling Duck: Mallards feed by tipping forward in the water, tail up, to reach plants and small creatures below the surface.
• Flash of Blue: Both males and females have a bright blue wing patch called a speculum, visible in flight.
• World Traveler: Mallards have been introduced in many parts of the world and are one of the most widespread duck species.
• Flexible Diet: They eat aquatic plants, seeds, insects, and small invertebrates.