Station 13

The mallard

The “lavanco” or mallard is a very common bird in wetlands, especially in shallow waters, where it can be found in groups. Here it looks for aquatic plants, its favourite food, although it does not rule out eating insects, worms or small molluscs and fish.

The male is characterised by its colourful plumage, with iridescent green colours on the head and neck and bluish tones on part of the wings, very visible when it flies. The female has brownish colours, very useful for camouflage during breeding, as it does not leave the nest. This sexual dimorphism is very common in birds of the Anatidae family.

What is the best time to watch it?

February is the mating season. The mallard displays a colourful mating procession, with a complex display of posturing, wing flapping, head turning and shaking, tail stretching and beak slapping the water. In early spring, the young are already swimming in a group with the mother and, after a couple of months, they are able to fly.


LISTEN

LOCATION
Volver
Esta web utiliza cookies propias y de terceros. Aceptar | Más información