Date: February 4th, 2023
Location: Jiudu River, Huairou, Beijing, China
Description: Mallard is a species of dabbling duck found throughout the temperate and subtropical regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. It is one of the most commonly recognized bird species distributed worldwide. Mallards are perceived as invasive species in some regions. Additionally, they are one of the most common species primarily because of their strong adaptability.
Appearance: The way a mallard appears to be is dependent on whether it is male or female. The male mallard has a bright yellow bill, a distinctive green head, a white neck ring, and a chestnut-brown chest, with a greyish-brown body and black rear end. On the other hand, the female mallard has a mottled brown body with a white-bordered blue patch on both wings. The female mallard's head has a dark brown color with an orange bill. The legs and feet are orange as well. Moreover, female mallards are slightly smaller than males and have a less distinctive appearance than their male counterparts.
Behavior: Mallards are migratory birds, with populations in North America typically flying south for the winter. They are also common in urban and suburban areas and can often be found in parks and ponds. Mallards feed on a variety of foods, including aquatic plants, insects, and small fish, and they are known for their characteristic "dabbling" behavior, where they tip their heads underwater to feed.
Male Mallard:
Female Mallard:
"Dabbling" behavior:
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