Mallard

A mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) is a common and widespread dabbling duck found in freshwater and saltwater wetlands across the Northern Hemisphere. It is the ancestor of most breeds of domestic ducks and is known for the male's iridescent green head. 🦆

The male mallard, or drake, is easily recognized by its glossy green head, a white neck ring, and a grayish body with a curled tail feather. The female, or hen, has a mottled brown-and-tan plumage, which provides excellent camouflage while nesting. Both sexes have a bright orange beak, but the female's is often speckled with black.

Mallards are found in a variety of aquatic habitats, from small ponds and rivers to large lakes and estuaries. They are omnivores and dabble for their food by tipping their heads and bodies into the water to feed on submerged vegetation, insects, and small crustaceans.

Mallards are highly social and often seen in flocks. They are dabbling ducks, which means they do not dive completely underwater for food. They take off directly from the water with a powerful flight, and their flight call is a distinctive quack.