American Wigeon x Mallard hybrid (Anas americana x A. platyrhynchos), Freestone Park, Gilbert, Maricopa County

This apparent American Wigeon x Mallard hybrid was found by Sean Fitzgerald on 06 February 2016 and photographed by Ryan P. O'Donnell on 07 February.

Although ducks in general, and Mallards in particular, are notorious for hybridizing, this is an infrequently documented hybrid combination.

The overall structure and many plumage details, such as contrasting reddish breast, gray flanks, and white tail of this bird suggest a Mallard. The bill color and head pattern are more similar to an American Wigeon.

07 February 2016, photo by Ryan P. O'Donnell

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