smittyone@cox.net Posted August 17, 2021 Share Posted August 17, 2021 They were seen today at DeSoto NWR near Missouri Valley, IA. The two large ducks were nearly Mallard-sized--definitely much larger than the other dabbling ducks nearby. To me, the pair look similar to each other, except for their bill color. I don't believe I've seen them before, so whatever they are, they'd be my first new "Lifer" birds in over 2 years. My guess is that they're American Black Ducks. The smaller ducks, of which there were about 20, I believe are immature/non-breeding adult Blue-winged Teal. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Phalarope713 Posted August 17, 2021 Share Posted August 17, 2021 Mallard and Blue-winged Teal 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RobinHood Posted August 17, 2021 Share Posted August 17, 2021 Agree. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Inastrangeland Posted August 17, 2021 Share Posted August 17, 2021 This time of year, mallards are kinda in between plumages (ramping up for their typical breeding pattern),so it’s understandable that you question if they are mallards. You can still see the chestnut coloured breast (although muted) among other typical mallard characteristics. 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Charlie Spencer Posted August 17, 2021 Share Posted August 17, 2021 1 hour ago, Inastrangeland said: among other typical mallard characteristics. Like those wide white bars on either side of the speculum. 6 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Quiscalus quiscula Posted August 17, 2021 Share Posted August 17, 2021 American Black Ducks would have plainer dark plumage. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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