Mallard song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Mallard, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

Males have a softer, rasping 'raeb' or 'quack' and a whistling call. Females produce the classic loud, descending 'quack-quack-quack-quack' series, often described as the archetypal duck sound.

Calls

Female's call is a loud, resonant 'quack'. Males have a quieter, reedy 'rab-rab' or 'kwek-kwek' and a high-pitched whistle used during courtship.

When they vocalize

Vocalizes year-round, with increased calling during courtship and breeding season. Females are particularly vocal when disturbed or leading ducklings.

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