Mallard

Scientific name: Anas platyrhynchos

Male Mallard
Mallard female
Male Mallard Eclipse Plumage

Female Mallard

Did you know: Mallards are incredibly adaptable ducks, able to thrive even in urban environments, a trait uncommon in many waterfowl species!

What Do Mallards Look Like? (How to Identify Them)

Mallards are large, distinctive ducks with a stout body and a broad bill. Males are notable for their striking green heads and yellow bills, while females display a mottled brown plumage with an orange and brown bill.

Differences Between Male And Female Mallards

Males, or drakes, have a vibrant green head and a white ring around their neck, separating the dark chest from the grey body. Females, or hens, have a speckled brown appearance, which provides excellent camouflage.

What Do Mallards Eat?

Mallards are omnivores, feeding on a mix of plant and animal matter. Their diet includes seeds, acorns, berries, insects, and small shellfish.

Where Do Mallards Live? (Including Migration Info)

Mallards are found in a variety of wetland habitats across the UK, from urban parks to remote countryside. While many are resident, some populations migrate from northern Europe and Iceland to spend winters in the UK.

Bird Calls & Songs (The Unique Voices of Mallards)

Mallards are vocal ducks; females are known for their loud quacking, while males have softer, raspier calls. Their vocalisations vary, with more boisterous calls noted in urban environments.

Fun Mallard Facts (Kid Friendly)

Mallards can adapt to various environments, including city ponds.
They are the ancestors of most domestic duck breeds.
Mallard ducklings are capable of swimming as soon as they hatch.
In the winter, Mallards often join large flocks for social interaction.
They can interbreed with several other duck species, creating diverse hybrids.

Mallard Video

Facts About The Mallard

Diet: Seeds, acorns and berries, plants, insects and shellfish.
Length: 51- 62 cm
Wingspan: 81-98 cm
Weight: 750-1500 g
Scientific Name: Anas platyrhynchos