While these ducks may seem boring since they are so common, they have many interesting characteristics that may set them apart from other ducks.
The Mallard duck (Anas platyrhynchos), one of the more common breed of ducks, has a dark green head and a bright yellow bill. Females and babies are brown with brown bills. Both male and females have a blue “speculum” patch in the wing. Mallard ducks are omnivores and "dabbling ducks". Dabbling ducks are a type of shallow water duck.
Mallard ducks are commonly found throughout North America, Asia, and Europe. They are typically found near ponds, rivers and lakes. They feed on the surface of the water by diving the heads in the water and feeding on aquatic plants, vegetation, and other things.
Migration and Habitats
Mallard ducks live in wetland habitats. They live on lakes, marshes, rivers, and other wet areas. Female mallard ducks make that famous "quack" sound. They quack to call other ducks, which would usually be their babies. This action would be called the "hail call".
Mallard ducks will always migrate to the warmer areas because of the warmth and food. Mallard ducks use wind currents in the air to push them faster. This conserves their energy. Doing this tactic allows them to travel 800 miles in 8 hours.
Mallard Ducks eating at Westmoreland Sanctuary
Ducklings
When the ducklings are hatched, the mother duck will lead them to the water. After this point, the ducklings start becoming independent. They swim, eat, and they know where to find food. Even though they learn some basic skills, the mother duck will continue to watch and protect the ducklings for a few more months, but after two months, the ducklings learn how to fly and they become fully independent, and no longer need the supervision of their parents.
Citations
Ducksters. "Mallard Ducks: Learn about this popular fowl.." Ducksters, Technological Solutions, Inc. (TSI), www.ducksters.com/animals/mallardduck.php. Accessed 1 April 2021.
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