Mallard x Mexican/Mottled Duck Hybrid
Mallard x Mexican/Mottled Duck Hybrid
-
Not yet spotted on Fladder
Spotted
This complex hybrid represents an intergrade between the widely distributed Mallard and either the Mexican Duck or Mottled Duck. Individuals typically show a blend of characteristics from these closely related brown duck species.
Where to spot
Look for this hybrid in the southwestern United States and Mexico, particularly in freshwater wetlands, rivers, and agricultural areas where the ranges of Mallards, Mexican Ducks, and Mottled Ducks overlap.
How to spot
Identify by a predominantly brown body similar to Mexican or Mottled Ducks, but with clear Mallard influences such as green head iridescence (in males), a subtle white neck ring, or more distinct white borders on the speculum. Plumage can be highly variable.
When to spot
Year-round within its range, as the parent species are largely resident in these areas.
Where to spot
Look for this hybrid in the southwestern United States and Mexico, particularly in freshwater wetlands, rivers, and agricultural areas where the ranges of Mallards, Mexican Ducks, and Mottled Ducks overlap.
How to spot
Identify by a predominantly brown body similar to Mexican or Mottled Ducks, but with clear Mallard influences such as green head iridescence (in males), a subtle white neck ring, or more distinct white borders on the speculum. Plumage can be highly variable.
When to spot
Year-round within its range, as the parent species are largely resident in these areas.
The close genetic relationship between Mallards, Mexican Ducks, and Mottled Ducks contributes to frequent hybridization, making precise identification of pure forms or specific hybrid crosses exceptionally challenging in the field.
Loading...
Spotted
No recently spotted birds
No observations
Loading...
Nothing spotted yet
Also interesting
Share this page
Or share directly on
