Mallards can be found almost anywhere in the world - including Nebraska. You'll also find mallard ducks in locations like Asia, Africa and South America.

Mallards are known as dabbling ducks. It is a medium-to-large duck that is easy to recognize. The male ducks have a glossy green head with a white collar around the neck. The female is mostly brown. Both have orange feet. Both males and females have a blue "speculum" bordered with white on both sides. A duck's "speculum" is the back portion of its secondary feathers.

What is dabbling? A mallard is a dabbling duck because it tips its body into the water bill first. The tail sticks right out of the water into the air. With their bills, they look for food. Mallards do eat snails, insects and small fish. But, 90% of their diet is grass seeds and other plants - including pondweeds.

The male is called a "drake". The female is called a "hen". The baby ducks are called "ducklings".

The drake stays with the hen for the first week of incubation which takes 28 days. After the first week, the male leaves and joins groups of other males. The female incubates the eggs herself. After the ducklings hatch, they can leave the nest. They will be able to fly from 49-60 days later.

How fast can a mallard fly? One study recorded a speed of 40 miles per hour (Cottam et al 1942). Other studies have recorded speeds from 26 to 60 miles per hour (Palmer 1976a).

Throughout the ages, the Mallard has benefited people by supplying them with eggs and meat. Many of our domestic ducks who their Mallard heritage in their bright color. Mallards are beautiful birds that bring joy to outdoor and wildlife enthusiasts.

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