Mallard

(Anas platyrhynchos)

 

Male Mallards swim on Mountain Lake.

Will Elder, NPS

 

Natural History: This aquatic species feeds mostly on plant material. It rarely dives and tends to hide in dense, emergent vegetation. It is a monogamous species that tends to nest in hollows among reeds or grass from March to July.

General Distribution: The Mallard is found in ponds, streams, bay areas, marshes, and tidal rocky areas, where they breed.

Frequency: This animal is found abundantly during the winter, spring, and summer months.

Identifying Characteristics: This species has different identifying features between the males and females. The males show a glossy, green head and narrow white collar. They have a yellowish bill and orange feet. The females can be noted by a mottled brown with whitish tail. The females tend to emit loud quacks.

Presidio Birds main page