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 Mallard
Anas platyrhynchos L 56, W 95. Commonest and
most widespread of the surface-feeding ducks,
also the largest and heaviest. Identified in
flight by size, robust body, slightly rounded
wings, moderately quick wingbeats. Wing whistle
characteristic of species. Found in parks and
on city canals, on rivers, ponds, lowland lakes,
woodland swamps, upland waters etc. Very active
at night, not least on migration in N Europe.
Versatile in choice of nest site, readily accepting
'duck-baskets'. The males gather in flocks before
the summer moult. In winter found in large flocks
on the sea along northern coasts, elsewhere
commonly inland. Males court females in winter
when he gives a short weak whistle 'piu'. Female
has a loud quacking call; drake a one syllable,
quieter, nasal and confident 'vepp'. RWP
 An
excellent pocket reference book for recognising birds
is the Hamlyn Guide to Birds of Britain and Europe,
which is a comprehensive reference guide to Britain
and mainland Europe's plethora of ornithological life.
Buy
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in US
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