One of the most common and recognizable ducks in North America, frequently seen in the Coachella Valley near lakes, ponds, golf courses, and wetland areas.
Identification & Appearance
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Size: 20-26 inches (50-65 cm) long, with a wingspan of 32-39 inches (81-99 cm).
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Male (Drake):
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Iridescent green head with a distinct white neck ring.
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Yellow bill.
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Chestnut-brown breast and grayish body.
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Bright blue wing patch (speculum) bordered by white.
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Female (Hen):
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Mottled brown plumage, providing excellent camouflage.
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Orange bill with dark markings.
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Blue speculum like the male, but less vibrant.
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Both sexes: Have orange webbed feet and a distinctive curly tail feather in males.
Behavior & Adaptations
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Highly adaptable, thriving in urban parks, canals, wetlands, and agricultural areas.
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Omnivorous diet, eating plants, insects, and small aquatic animals.
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Strong flyers, capable of long-distance migration.
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Social birds, often forming flocks outside of breeding season.
Habitat & Range
- Found near freshwater lakes, ponds, rivers, and marshes.
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Year-round residents in the Coachella Valley, but some populations migrate.
- Frequently seen in urban areas, including golf course ponds and backyard pools.
Diet
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Dabbling duck—feeds by tipping forward in the water rather than diving.
- Eats:
- Aquatic plants
- Insects and small invertebrates
- Grains and seeds
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Often seen foraging on land for grass and leftover crops.
Nesting & Reproduction
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Nest on the ground, often hidden in grass or near water.
- Lay 8-12 eggs, incubated by the female.
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Ducklings hatch precocial, meaning they can walk and swim within hours of hatching.
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Highly protective mothers, leading their ducklings to water soon after birth.
Conservation & Threats
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Not endangered, as they are one of the most abundant duck species.
- Threats include:
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Habitat loss due to urbanization.
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Pollution and lead poisoning from contaminated water.
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Hybridization with domestic ducks, affecting wild genetics.
Where to See in the Coachella Valley
- Lake Cahuilla
- Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge
- Golf course ponds and urban lakes
- Irrigation canals and flooded fields
The Mallard Duck is a familiar and beloved species, known for its beautiful plumage, adaptability, and playful nature. As a common sight in the Coachella Valley, it plays an essential role in wetland ecosystems and brings life and charm to local waterways. 🦆💦✨
