


Anas platyrhynchos
The Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos, probably the best-known and most
recognizable of all ducks, is a dabbling duck which breeds throughout the
temperate and sub-tropical areas of North America, (where it is currently the
most common duck species). It is strongly migratory in the northern parts of its
breeding range, and winters farther south. For example, in North America it
winters south to Mexico, between September and May.
The Mallard is 56–65 cm long, has a wingspan of 81–98 cm, and
weighs 0.9–1.2 kg. The breeding male is unmistakable, with a green head,
black rear end and a yellowish orange (can also contain some red) bill tipped
with black (as opposed to the dark brown bill in females). The female Mallard is
light brown, like most female dabbling ducks. However, both the female and male
Mallards have distinct purple speculum edged with white, prominent in flight or
at rest (though temporarily shedded during the annual summer molt). In
non-breeding (eclipse) plumage the drake becomes drab, looking more like the
female, but still distinguishable by its yellow bill and reddish breast.
Blackduck, MN 56630


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