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Mallard look-alikes

Anas platyrhynchos (eksempel: stokkand)

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Several birds can be mistaken for the Mallard. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.

Birds to compare

American Black Duck

Anas rubripes

Key differences

The American Black Duck is darker overall, lacking the male Mallard's green head and white neck ring. Its bill is yellowish (male) or dusky (female), and its speculum is purplish-blue without white borders. Hybridization with Mallards is common.

Mottled Duck

Anas fulvigula

Key differences

Similar to female Mallards but generally darker, with a more uniform brown body and a brighter yellow bill (especially in males). The speculum is blue-green, often without white borders, or with very narrow ones. Found in the southeastern US and Gulf Coast.

Mexican Duck

Anas diazi

Key differences

Often considered a subspecies of Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos diazi). Resembles a female Mallard but is generally darker, with a less distinct eye-stripe and a darker bill. Found in the southwestern US and Mexico.

Gadwall

Mareca strepera

Key differences

Both sexes of Gadwall are generally grey-brown. Males have a black rear and a white speculum, while females have an orange-sided bill and a white speculum. Mallard females have a blue speculum.

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