Scientific Name:
Anas platyrhnchos
Common Name:
Mallard
Family:
Ducks, Geese and Swans: Anatidae
Summary:
The Mallard is the most familiar of the British Isle ducks. Female and male Mallards look very different. The male has a distinct green head, a yellow bill and a thin white neck ring. The body is generally grey and brown although the rear is black. The female is less distinctive with a speckled brown appearance and orange bill. Both sexes have a blue patch on the wing that can be seen during flight.
Ecology:
Mallards can be seen on just about any town or village pond, gathering together into large groups if food is plentiful. Males can often be seen chasing females during the breeding season. They build a nest in a hollow in thick undergrowth using grass and leaves. Mallards feed on young plant material such as new stems and buds, particularly of aquatic plants. They will also eat seeds and invertebrates.
Habitat:
Lakes and rivers.
Distribution:
Throught the British Isles
Size:
58 cm