Anas platyrhynchos
Size: 50–65cm (20–26in)

Large heavily-built dabbling duck with rather long head and
bill.

Adult male characterised by glossy, dark-green head,
white collar and purple-brown chest; rest of plumage mainly
light grey, tail white with black central feathers.

Female dull,
mottled brown. Both sexes have purple speculum (metallic,
coloured feathers on upper wing) bordered by white wing bars,
particularly conspicuous in flight.

Juvenile plumage similar to
female.
Colouring of male resembles male Red-breasted Merganser
(protected). Female similar to female Wigeon, Pintail,
Shoveler and Gadwall, but both male and female Mallard are
bigger and more heavily built.

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