We continue the theme of hunting birds with Mallard or Anas platyrhynchos. It can be found under the names Common Mallard, Mallard or Plover. It is among the largest representatives of the duck family. The weight is between 0.9 and 1.7 kg and the body length varies between 56 and 65 cm.

Distribution

Nests in Europe, Asia, North America, northern Africa and is also found in Bulgaria. It inhabits a variety of wetlands, freshwater and saltwater ponds, and requires dense vegetation for shelter. In Bulgaria, it is most commonly found in the lowland parts of the country, along the Danube River and the Black Sea coast. About 100 000 birds winter in Bulgaria. The Mallard is the most numerous duck species in Bulgaria.

Lifestyle and nutrition

In June, males gather in flocks in marshes and ponds that have tall reeds. They choose these places because during this period all their tail feathers and wings suddenly drop off. For about half a year they lose their ability to fly.

The mallard is omnivorous. It feeds on animal and plant grass. It feeds by dipping its head and neck into the shallows of ponds. Exceptionally, it may also dive.

Reproduction

Mallards are both polygamous and monogamous. Quite often pairs are formed in winter, and they sometimes persist for several years.

The female lays one egg every day, most often 9-13 eggs. It molts for 26 days. Hatchlings are well developed and can swim, dive and feed independently just a few hours after birth.

Hunting

The mallard is a valuable game bird. It is the most widespread and most numerous of all birds in Bulgaria. About 100 000 mallards winter in Bulgaria. Their hunting is allowed from 1 October to 31 January.

Sources: en.wikipedia.org