The Mallard is the most familiar and abundant duck in North America and the ancestor of most domestic duck breeds. The iridescent green head, yellow bill, and chestnut breast of the breeding male are iconic. Female Mallards produce the classic 'quack' most people associate with ducks; males give a softer, raspy 'krep' sound.
Best time to see a Mallard
The best time to see a Mallard is January–June, when about 64% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 410,601 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Mallard? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Mallard sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Mallard?
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