Common name: Mallard
Scientific name: Anas platyrhynchos
Family: Anatidae

Size:
Body length: 50–65 cm
Wingspan: 80–98 cm
Weight: 700–1500 g

Identification:
A familiar and widespread duck with clear sexual dimorphism. The male is distinctive with a glossy green head, white neck ring, chestnut breast, and grey body. The female is mottled brown, providing excellent camouflage. Both sexes show a blue speculum bordered with white on the wings, visible in flight. The bill is yellow in males and orange-brown in females.

Habitat:
Freshwater habitats including lakes, rivers, ponds, marshes, and urban water bodies. Also found in coastal lagoons.

Status in Lebanon:
Common winter visitor and passage migrant. Occurs in wetlands across the country.

Status in the UAE:
Common winter visitor. Often seen in wetlands, parks, and artificial water bodies.

Diet:
Omnivorous — feeds on aquatic plants, seeds, insects, small fish, and invertebrates.

Behavior:
Often seen dabbling on the water surface rather than diving. Social and frequently found in groups. Comfortable around humans, especially in urban settings. Males display courtship behaviors during the breeding season.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)