Mallard and Chicks is a photograph by Flees Photos which was uploaded on November 22nd, 2014.
Mallard and Chicks
This is an image of a Mallard duck Mom and her chicks swimming in a North Carolina lake. Mallard ducks are beautiful aquatic birds. They are very... more
by Flees Photos
Title
Mallard and Chicks
Artist
Flees Photos
Medium
Photograph
Description
This is an image of a Mallard duck Mom and her chicks swimming in a North Carolina lake. Mallard ducks are beautiful aquatic birds. They are very graceful and very protective of their chicks. It is cool that in nearly every circumstance that I have witnessed a Mallard duck and Mallard chicks they are always real close to momma.
The Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) is one of the most widespread and well-known duck species in the world. They are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats across North America, Europe, Asia, and other regions. Here are some interesting facts about Mallard ducks:
Appearance: Male Mallards, also known as drakes, have a vibrant and distinctive appearance. They have a glossy green head, a white neck ring, a brownish-gray body, and a bright yellow bill. Females, or hens, have mottled brown plumage with an orange and black bill.
Sexual Dimorphism: Mallards exhibit sexual dimorphism, meaning males and females have different physical characteristics. This is especially evident in their plumage, where males have more colorful and patterned feathers compared to the more camouflaged appearance of females.
Range: Mallards have an extensive range, being found across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in both natural and human-altered environments.
Habitat: Mallards can be found in a wide range of habitats, including lakes, rivers, ponds, marshes, and coastal estuaries. They are equally at home in urban parks and suburban water bodies.
Omnivorous Diet: Mallards have a varied diet, which includes aquatic vegetation, seeds, insects, small fish, and other invertebrates. Their adaptability allows them to find food in various environments.
Migratory Behavior: Many Mallards are migratory birds, especially those breeding in northern regions. They undertake seasonal migrations, traveling south to milder climates during the winter months.
Nesting Habits: Mallards build their nests on the ground, often concealed among vegetation near water. The female lines the nest with down feathers to create a soft and warm environment for her eggs.
Precocial Ducklings: Mallard ducklings are precocial, meaning they are relatively mature and mobile shortly after hatching. They can leave the nest and follow their mother to water within hours of birth.
Hybridization: Mallards are known to hybridize with other duck species, both in the wild and in captivity. This hybridization can sometimes lead to challenges in species identification.
Cultural Significance: Mallards hold cultural significance in various regions and are frequently depicted in art, literature, and folklore. They are also a popular subject for birdwatchers and photographers.
Mallards' adaptability, attractive appearance, and familiar presence make them a beloved and well-studied species, providing valuable insights into the behaviors and ecology of ducks worldwide.
Uploaded
November 22nd, 2014
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Comments (65)
Jerry Bokowski
She almost has all of her ducks in a row, Chris!.....great capture here! F/L Jerry
Flees Photos replied:
I had to laugh when I read your comment about the ducks in a row. thank you for the smile and comments
Kris Hiemstra
This is wonderful. I have photographed many mallards but was never lucky enough to see chicks! Great clarity and color.
Hanne Lore Koehler
Fantastic capture of this sweet little ducky family, Chris!!! Wonderful composition and reflections! L/F/T/fb
Phyllis Kaltenbach
Simply beautiful, Chris The chicks and Mama are so pretty in that light an the water and reflexions are wonderful! L/F