Deep Forest Canopy
Species Radar
Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl

Mallard

Anas platyrhynchos

The mallard or wild duck is a dabbling duck that breeds throughout the temperate and subtropical Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa. It has been introduced to New Zealand, Australia, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, the Falkland Islands, and South Africa. Belonging to the subfamily Anatinae of the waterfowl family Anatidae, mallards live in wetlands, eat water plants and small animals, and are social animals preferring to congregate in groups or flocks of varying sizes.

Where are you looking?

Select a tracking region above to ping the eBird database and reveal live hotspots for the Mallard.

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Low-Light Telephoto Systems

Identifying specific features of the Mallard requires high-contrast magnification. Check out the top-rated 8x42 optics.

View Pro Optics

📘 ID Reference Card

Duck & Waterfowl ID Reference

Compact pocket-card format — print & fold. Covers plumage, field marks, and song mnemonics.

Expedition Prep

Targeting the Mallard?

Build a custom travel itinerary around these hotpot clusters using our trip planning suite.

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