Hi, I was wondering if this bird is a mallard or something else? I’m not too sure and Merlin bird ID didn’t seem sure either. Thanks!
No not a Mallard, I can’t think of what it is however.
Google Lens no help either ... they show male Mallard and label it 'duck'
2013 photos & vids here
eff37 on Flickr
I think it may be a male in eclipse, not a female. Is this an older picture? I’m not the best with ducks I apologise, but I will ask my friend for you. He’s an expert on these things haha.
the head and bill and general colouration remind me of a fem/juv red crested pochard, However the white/blue/black speculum (side wing panel) is not r c pochard........so maybe most likely a hybrid of 2 ducks. Identiy the bill pattern and the wing bar pattern of each duck and i think youll have your answer!
Where was the photo taken? WWT reserve?
I've just run it through Obsidentify that offered up White-cheeked Pintail with a 92% certainty - which if sbns is right in his question about WWT it could well be as they tend to have all sorts of exotics
Cin J
They were taken in the Lee Valley near Cheshunt just along the canal!
Is no-one going to suggest a female gadwall?
Thanks. Certainly isn't a UK native or 'wild'. I can't guess as to what the mix is, but I think I've seen similar before! Might be best put down to hybrid.
Here are some more pictures of her - I’m certain she’s not a mallard she’s a bit smaller than them!