Male Mallard Duck (Anas platyrhynchos)

Male Mallard Duck (Anas platyrhynchos)

Male Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos)
Location:  Otago Peninsula, South Island, New Zealand

The Mallard duck (Anas platyrhynchos) is one of the most common species of waterfowl in the world.   It is reputed to be one of the best known and most easily recognized species -- especially the male, pictured here.   It may be 'common' in one sense of the word, nevertheless I think that the Mallard also is one of the best looking waterfowl species anywhere, don't you?

Update:  Here is a photo of a female Mallard, too.

6 comments:

Celeste said...

I totally agree, there is nothing more handsome than a male mallard in full breeding plumage, always a pleasure to see.

BNS said...

Hi Celeste - They are indeed a pleasure to see.

Bobbie

kml said...

Yep, we have them here too. I love metallic green of their head feathers - so beautiful!

вεдτε said...

A beautyful duck!
In norwegian, it`s kalled "Stokkand" =)

BNS said...

Thanks Kathy and вεдτε.

Bobbie

ANUAR ZAIN said...

Yes, I saw this one before in NZ. Very friendly duck, not shy at all.