What kind of bird is a mallard? We will explain its characteristics, ecology, and habitat. The entire beak is pale yellow, which is its most distinguishing feature. Ducks are improved versions of mallards as poultry, so please refer to the article below as well, as you will see that they are very similar.
What is mallard? About basic status
Mallard ducks are birds classified in the order Anseriformes and family Anseriformes. The English name is mallard, the scientific name is Anas platyrhynchos, and the kanji is mallard. We will introduce the information in a list. Body length 50-65cm. Wingspan 75-100cm. Both males and females look similar to ducks.
| Japanese（和名） | マガモ |
| English（英名） | Mallard |
| scientific name(学名) | Anas platyrhynchos |
| classification（分類） | Ave、 Anseriformes、Anatidae、Anas 鳥綱、カモ目、カモ科、マガモ属 |
| IUCN Status(保全状況) | LEAST CONCERN |
| Length（全長） | 50-65cm |
| Weight（体重） | 1kg |
About classification
Mallards and ducks are genetically the same species. Ducks are improved versions of mallards as poultry. The following subspecies of mallard exist:
- Anas platyrhynchos platyrhynchos マガモ
- Anas platyrhynchos conboschus グリーンランドマガモ
- Anas platyrhynchos maculosa マダラマガモ
- Anas platyrhynchos diazi メキシコマガモ
- Anas platyrhynchos diazi フロリダマガモ
- Anas platyrhynchos wyvilliana ハワイマガモ
- Anas platyrhynchos laysanensis レイサンマガモ
About habitat
Mallard ducks live in the northern hemisphere and are quite widespread in cold to temperate regions. In Japan, it can be seen all over Honshu.
feature is? What kind of creature is it?
Mallard ducks have white markings and the entire beak is pale yellow. Many of these birds migrate to Japan’s lakes, rivers, and coasts as winter birds or migratory birds. Those that breed in the north tend to overwinter. Mallard ducks are primarily herding animals, living in large groups. They are good at swimming on the water’s surface and can stick their heads underwater or do handstands.
What does the ecology look like?
Mallard ducks have a herbivorous diet. They eat leaves, stems, and seeds of plants. The reproductive form is oviparous. They form pairs and the breeding season is from April to August. They build shallow dish-shaped nests and can lay 1 to 13 eggs. The incubation period is one month. The lifespan is said to be about 5-10 years.
Are there any natural enemies?
Mallard ducks’ natural enemies include crows.
Is the mallard an endangered species?
Mallard ducks as a whole are not an endangered species. However, in Japan, it has been designated as a near-threatened species in Tochigi Prefecture, and it is known that the number of individuals in the area is decreasing.
Can mallards be kept as pets?
Wild mallards are difficult to raise. They don’t feel attached to humans. Also, keeping wild birds is prohibited under Japanese law. It is photographed in illustrated books along with spot-billed ducks and other animals, and is often posted on internet pages.
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