Gadwall X Mallard hybrid (Mareca strepera x Anas platyrhynchos), Neely Ranch, Maricopa County

This Gadwall X Mallard hybrid was found and photographed by Dara Vazquez on 19 January 2018

Also known as "Brewer's" Duck

Dominantly shows Mallard traits overall. Most distinctive field mark for Gadwall X Mallard is the bi-colored beige and dark bill color. Also common is the two-toned head, green with a beige cheek. The breast is finely scalloped such as in a Gadwall but has a mixed coloring of the two species with grey and reddish tones. The flanks are grey but have a warm brown wash. Mantle is brown and wings show potential of Gadwall wing patch. Femoral tract is more Gadwall like with black extending higher unto rump.

19 January 2018, photo by Dara Vazquez

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