In all plumages, this large dabbling duck shows a blue or violet-blue speculum with white borders on both the leading and trailing edges. Male: In basic plumage, males have a metallic green head with an unmarked yellow bill. A white ring separates the neck from the chestnut breast. Sides and back are finely barred pale gray. The rump and undertail areas are black, contrasting with white outer tail feathers. The central black tail feathers curl upwards, a unique feature among waterfowl. Feet are reddish orange. In Summer and early Fall adult males assume a cryptic female-like appearance, but with dark greenish crown and chestnut wash on the breast. Female: Medium brown overall with paler belly and face. An indistinct dark line runs through the eye. Bill is orange with a large black area in the middle. Feet are orange. Southern subspecies (Mexican Mallard): Both sexes similar to female northern Mallard, but smaller and darker overall with an all-dark tail. The greenish-blue speculum has a dull white border to the trailing edge only. Intergrades between the two subspecies are common. Domestic forms of Mallard are usually larger than wild birds. They may be patterned like wild birds, be all white, all black, or show any combination of traits.

Length: 50 (cm) Wingspan: 76 (cm)

Voice:

A loud descending series of quacks. Males are quieter.

Habitat:

Found in virtually any habitat where open water and food are available. Usually nests near shallow wetlands and lake edges.

Behavior:

Is highly prone to hybridizing with other species of dabbling ducks; most notably, American Black Duck.

Feeding:

Dabbles for aquatic invertebrates in breeding season. In winter, eats seeds, nuts, and grain.