How to Identify a Male Mallard Duck

The male Mallard duck is one of the easiest ducks to identify. The glistening, emerald green head and trademark white neck ring of the male mallard duck make him easily distinguishable from the female mallard duck and other species of ducks.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Look at the colors on the duck. In addition to its bright green head with a white ring, the male mallard is known for its colorful feathers and body parts. The male mallard duck has a brown chest, silver wing feathers and bright blue feathers on the tips of his wings. His bill is bright yellow and his feet are orange.

2. Listen for his call. Male mallards do not say "Quack quack" they say "Kwek kwek." The male's call is nasal and raspy. The female mallard makes the more traditional "Quack" sound.

3. Look at him dabbling. Mallards are classified as a "dabbling duck," which means that they skim the surface of the water with their beaks to feed on vegetation. Mallards rarely dive to look for food.

4. Note its location. The mallard duck breeds in Canada and winters in North America, Central America and the West Indies. The mallard can also be found in Europe and Asia.

5. Visit their favorite spots. Mallards can be found in rivers, swamps, marshes, ponds and estuaries. Mallards are social ducks and are often found in large groups.

6. Check out his mate. Mallards are generally monogamous. The male mallards are often seen with their less colorful female counterparts.