Spring Migration Arrival: Mallards

One of the first arrivals at Carillon Stonegate Pond during the spring migration are Mallards. In early March, both male and female Mallards arrive to establish their nesting grounds around the pond.

Identification: The glossy green head and yellow bill of the male mallard duck are distinguishing features. The drake also exhibits a white neckband separating a chestnut-colored chest and a grey body. Females are mottled brown with iridescent purple-blue wing feathers visible as patches on their sides. Mallards typically measure around two feet in length and have a wingspan of approximately three feet, weighing about 2.5 pounds.

Habitat at Carillon Stonegate Pond: Depending on temperatures and water conditions, Mallards can be observed throughout the year at Carillon Stonegate Pond. They may frequent the pond or fly over it during seasonal migrations.

Flight Patterns: Mallards are strong, elegant fliers with broad wings set toward the rear. Migrating flocks can travel at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour, often flying in the iconic V-formation. During winter migrations, they seek warmer climates, frequently stopping at the same locations annually.

Behavior: Mallards are classified as "dabbling ducks," feeding by tipping forward to graze on underwater plants. They rarely dive and have long bodies with tails riding high above the water. In natural habitats, especially where hunted, Mallards are cautious of humans. However, in urban parks where they are commonly fed by people, they become tame and approachable.

Diet: As generalist foragers, Mallards consume a wide variety of food. They do not dive but dabble for seeds and aquatic vegetation. They also forage on land for vegetation and prey. During breeding seasons, their diet mainly consists of animal matter such as aquatic insect larvae, earthworms, snails, and freshwater shrimp. During migration, they primarily eat agricultural seeds and grains.

Residence: Mallards populate various freshwater habitats across North America, Asia, and Europe, including lakes, ponds, marshes, rivers, and coastal areas. They thrive in both natural and artificial environments, including city parks and residential areas.

Breeding and Nesting: Mallards nest on dry land close to water, usually concealed under grass or other vegetation, sometimes in agricultural fields. Pairs form in fall and winter, migrating to and breeding in the northern parts of their range. They typically lay about a dozen eggs. Ducklings can run, swim, and forage shortly after hatching, staying close to the mother for safety.

Migration: Mallards migrate in early spring and fall. Males likely follow females to breeding areas. Migration routes vary, with significant movements from Canada through the Midwestern United States to wintering sites along the Mississippi Flyway.

Conservation Status: There is currently low concern for Mallard populations. According to the North American Breeding Bird Survey, their numbers have slightly increased, with an estimated global breeding population of 19 million.

Vocalizations: The familiar "quack" sound is made by female Mallards. Males produce a quieter, rasping call. Listen to the sounds of the Mallard here.

Interesting Facts:

• The Mallard is the ancestor of nearly all domestic duck breeds.

• They are strong fliers, with migrating flocks traveling up to 55 miles per hour.

• A duck’s quack is usually a female Mallard's call; males do not quack.

• Mallards shed all their flight feathers after breeding season and are flightless for 3–4 weeks.

• Mallards frequently form hybrids with other duck species.

• The oldest known Mallard lived for approximately 28 years.

For additional information and sources used in this blog, please visit All About Birds, Audubon Society, and National Geographic. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology offers extensive resources for bird enthusiasts.

We all benefit from the diverse wildlife supported by the wetland, forest, and prairie environments of Carillon Stonegate Pond.

Enjoy a hike and explore the wonders that await your discovery.