Ducks (Anas)

Taking into account that only eleven Anas species count as native breeding species does little to put a dent into the genera's relative diversity. Only the seven diving ducks of the Aythya genus come close to matching Anas diversity.

Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) are dabbling ducks, and they are among the most recognizable duck species in the United States.

During breeding season, males are characterized by a green head and a yellow bill. Females have brown feathers.

During non-breeding season, males and females share most physical characteristics. Foot color is a good identification mark during the non-breeding season. Males usually have the brighter orange webbed feet.

Mallards are hardy ducks that often breed with other species, especially with domestic ducks.

Many mallards live year round in one territory. Others migrate to Canada during breeding season and winter in the United States.

Mottled Ducks (Anas fulvigula), close relatives to the Mallard Ducks, reside in a range limited to Florida, and a thin area along the Gulf Coast.

The picture highlights the duck's bright yellow bill. Female mallard bills are often duller with dark patches. The tail feathers of female mallards also show more white.

Their limited range, and the tendency toward mallard interbreeding are currently noted as causes of concern for Mottled Duck population stability.

The American Black Duck (Anas rubripes) makes its home in eastern North America.

Unlike many other ducks, males and females share similar physical features, especially the dark brown or black looking body.

The yellow bill and orange webbed feet are field identification marks they share with mallards. The female bill and foot color may be a bit paler. Interbreeding between the species occurs in areas where mallards and black duck populations overlap.

Significant population declines in the 1980s led to the Canadian and United States governments instituting hunting regulations as a population management tool.

The Green-winged Teal (Anas crecca), a highly migratory duck, breeds in the north winters in the south, with a small Northwest year round population.

Shallow ponds and streams in wooded areas, shallow mudflats around coastal areas all provide inviting habitat.

Females display a distinct green wing stripe. Males display distinct green facial stripes.

The Cinnamon Teal (Anas cyanoptera) lives almost exclusively west of the Mississippi River, breeding along the West Coast and wintering in Mexico.

The picture shows a male and female pair. The cinnamon colored duck is the male.

Please click on the Dabbling Ducks link for coverage of additional Anas species.

© 2002-2011 Patricia A. Michaels