When Does the Male Mallard Duck Change Color?

The male mallard duck changes color during fall. The change is most noticeable in the feathers on the back, which turn from a greenish-black to a brownish-black. The head and neck also change color, turning from a dark blue to a light brown.

This change in coloration is thought to be related to the amount of daylight and the changing seasons.

The male mallard duck changes color during the fall and winter months. His head and neck take on a greenish hue, while his body becomes a darker brown.

This change in coloration helps the duck to blend in with his surroundings and makes it more difficult for predators to spot him.

wild duck staying on the sidewalk

Mallard Duck Age Progression

One of the most popular ducks in North America is the mallard duck. These birds are easily recognized by their green heads and yellow bills.

Mallards can be found in a variety of habitats, including ponds, lakes, marshes, and even some urban areas. Mallards are one of the most widespread duck species in the world and have an extensive breeding range.

In North America, mallards typically breed from Alaska to Labrador in the north and as far south as California, Oklahoma, and New Jersey.

These ducks generally nest near water, often using abandoned nests of other birds such as herons or crows.

The average lifespan of a wild mallard is about 10 years, but many individuals live much longer. One banded bird was recaptured after 28 years!

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Do Mallard Males Change Color?

Mallard males do change color, but the extent to which they do so depends on the individual bird.

Some males may only undergo a slight change in plumage during the breeding season, while others may undergo a more dramatic transformation.

The exact reason for this difference is not fully understood, but it is thought that it may be related to the bird’s individual health and condition.

Can a Male Mallard Duck Be Brown?

Yes, a male mallard duck can be brown. The brown coloration is caused by a mutation in the gene that controls pigment production.

This mutation is relatively rare, so most mallard ducks are greenish-brown or yellowish-brown.

How Can You Tell If a Mallard Duckling is Male Or Female?

There are a few ways to tell if a mallard duckling is male or female. One way is to look at the bill. Male mallards have a black band on their bill, while females do not.

Another way to tell the difference is by looking at the plumage. Male ducks typically have brighter plumage than females.

Finally, you can determine the sex of a duckling by looking at its genitalia. Males have a penis, while females do not.

Do All Male Mallards Have Green Heads?

Mallard ducks are easily recognizable by their bright green heads and white necks. The males (drakes) have a blue-grey body with chestnut breasts, while the females (hens) are brownish with light-colored bellies.

While all male mallards have green heads, not all ducks with green heads are male mallards. For example, some species of teal also have green heads.

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Duck Identification: Mallards

Conclusion

The male mallard duck changes color during fall. The change is due to the loss of their feathers, which exposes their bare skin to the sun.

This causes their skin to produce more pigment, resulting in a darker color.

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