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 soft, reedy 'quack' or 'rab-rab' call, often described as a 'kwek-kwek-kwek'. They also make a low-pitched 'raeb' sound. Females produce the classic loud, descending 'quack-quack-quack-quack-quack' series, which is more varied and frequent than the male's calls.

Calls

The female's 'quack' is the most recognizable duck call. Both sexes also produce alarm calls, often a series of rapid quacks, and various grunts and whistles during courtship or social interactions.

When they vocalize

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

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