Submitted by: Submitted by kmjm
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Words: 929
Pages: 4
Category: Other Topics
Date Submitted: 09/08/2015 04:10 PM
Introduction
The Mallard Duck is a species known by sight to many, and is one of the most common duck species in the United States. Mallard Ducks prominently reside in the Appalachian and Rocky Mountains and are able to live in any wetland environment, natural and artificial. These ducks prefer calm and shallow habitats such as ponds, parks, and wilder wetlands. These are ideal locations for mallards since their main source of food includes seeds, rootlets and tubers of aquatic plants off swamp and river bottoms. The average size of the Mallard Duck is a length of 24.7 inches for males and 23 inches for females. The average weight is 2.7 pounds for males and 2.4 pounds for females. Similar to many other bird species, the male possesses more eye-catching colors compared to his female counterpart. The female mallard possesses an all-over brindled brown color, whereas the male mallard flaunts a bright evergreen head and glossy brown chest in order to entice females for mating. Mated pairs tend to migrate to northern ranges in order to breed and build nests on the ground, laying normally around a dozen eggs at a time. The average lifespan of a mallard is approximately 20 years.
Methods
This observation took place on Saturday, December 1, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. at English Springs Park in Chino Hills. Weather conditions were cold (approximately 59 degrees Fahrenheit) with a light drizzle present. English Springs Park possesses a large pond with a waterfall surrounded by many Willow Trees, which is where the Mallard Ducks were observed. Six ducks (2 male, 4 female) in total were dabbing around the pond and grassy land. Only a few people were present, and one child was feeling bread to the ducks while most individuals and groups of people were walking amongst each other or walking with a dog. This park is an ideal location for ducks as there is a large pond, and there are many bushes, trees, and grassy areas to inhabit.
Behavioral Description...