The Mottled Duck is a medium-sized dabbling duck known for its uniformly dusky plumage and a lack of strong sexual dimorphism. It is primarily found in coastal marshes and wetlands.
Where to spot
Native to the southeastern United States and along the Gulf Coast into Mexico. It prefers coastal prairies, brackish and freshwater marshes, swamps, and rice fields.
How to spot
Look for its plain, mottled brown body, a relatively dark cap, and a bright orange-yellow bill (brighter in males, duller in females). The blue-green speculum typically has black, but usually no white, borders. Pay attention to the lack of strong facial patterns or distinct male breeding plumage.
When to spot
Year-round resident throughout its range. It is not migratory, staying in the same areas throughout the year.
Where to spot
Native to the southeastern United States and along the Gulf Coast into Mexico. It prefers coastal prairies, brackish and freshwater marshes, swamps, and rice fields.
How to spot
Look for its plain, mottled brown body, a relatively dark cap, and a bright orange-yellow bill (brighter in males, duller in females). The blue-green speculum typically has black, but usually no white, borders. Pay attention to the lack of strong facial patterns or distinct male breeding plumage.
When to spot
Year-round resident throughout its range. It is not migratory, staying in the same areas throughout the year.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Unlike many other duck species where males are brightly colored, male and female Mottled Ducks look remarkably similar, making them one of the few dabbling ducks where sexing by plumage alone is difficult.
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