Mallards!
And their natural behaviours, which can cause quite a stir!
Frequent Problems with Mallards!
This page includes information on:
Forced Copulation (Multiple males “attacking” females)
Problem Nesting
Ducklings
Failed Broods
1.
Forced Copulation
Overview:
Forced copulation is, unfortunately, a common behaviour among mallards and some other waterfowl species. While it can be distressing to witness, it is an evolved reproductive strategy in these birds. Mallards experience high levels of sexual competition, leading to aggressive mating behaviours. Interestingly, female mallards have developed complex reproductive anatomy, including twisted oviducts, which allow them to exert some control over which male’s sperm successfully fertilises their eggs.
It serves as a stark reminder that nature does not always align with human concepts of morality. However, understanding these behaviours within an ecological and evolutionary context enables us to view them as part of the natural world rather than simply as cruelty.
Why does it happen?
The biggest factor is competition between mallard ducks to impregnate the hen. If the bird has a mate/partner, he may be able to ward off one or two competing drakes, but it’s unlikely that he’ll be able to protect her from multiple males. Sometimes, 5 or 6 drakes may be seen pushing the body of the hen below the water and using their beaks; they’ll hold onto the back of the neck, often resulting in these feathers being plucked. Female mallards have evolved to be able to select which male can impregnate her, for more information on this click the in-depth link below.
Will the female be injured?
Hens can sustain injuries during this process, but as this behaviour has been a natural part of their species for hundreds of years, they are generally capable of recovering over time. The most common aftereffects include feather loss, particularly around the neck, and exhaustion. In some cases, the intensity of the mating can be fatal, but this is relatively rare, as the primary goal is to impregnate the hen rather than to cause harm.
What can wildlife rescues do?
Wildlife rescues generally do not intervene in natural behaviours like this, as distressing as they may seem, because they are a normal part of mallard reproduction. Admitting a bird to prevent this can actually do more harm than good. However, if a female mallard is seriously injured—such as suffering deep wounds, severe exhaustion, or an inability to fly—some rescues may take her in for treatment and rehabilitation.
2.
Problem Nesting
Overview:
The hen does not always choose to nest near water; in fact, many prefer the safety of gardens, balconies, or other elevated locations. Nesting in these areas helps her avoid predators, reduces the risk of continued forced copulation, and minimises conflicts with other, potentially larger or more dominant birds competing for limited nesting space around lakes and streams. Once the ducklings hatch, they may face a long and challenging journey to the mother’s chosen water source. Sadly, mallards naturally have large broods of between 8 to 15 ducklings because their survival rate is low, with it estimated that only 30-40% of ducklings make it to adulthood.
The challenges with nesting away from water:
Gardening Conflicts—Like all wild birds, mallard nests are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. It is illegal to take, damage, or destroy a nest while it is being built or in use. If you discover a nesting mallard, it is best to step back and leave her undisturbed.
Nests at Height – It can be worrying to see a duck nesting off the ground, but this is often a natural response to avoid predators. Without hesitation, the mother will encourage her ducklings to leap down, where she will gather them before leading them to water. In some cases—particularly with large broods or if they have been disturbed by humans—she may begin the journey with a few ducklings missing but will often return shortly to collect the rest.
The Long Journey – For mallards that nest away from water, the journey can be long and challenging for the ducklings. While it’s helpful to assist them in safely crossing the road, it is crucial that you do not disturb them or attempt to relocate them yourself. The hen knows where she is going as long as she is not disturbed. Trying to capture and relocate ducklings increases their risk, as it may frighten the mother. Without her, the ducklings are unlikely to survive. Additionally, taking them to the wrong body of water—such as a different lake, pond, or stream—can result in them being attacked by other mallards. The only time intervention is appropriate is when the ducklings are in immediate and unavoidable danger or are trapped, which should be done by a rescue.
3.
Once the female mallard lays her eggs, it’ll only take between 25-30 days for the ducklings to hatch. Once hatched, they’re precocial, meaning they are born with the ability to walk and find food almost immediately.
Like other birds, mallards have a special gland near the base of their tail called the uropygial gland (or preen gland). This gland secretes an oily substance, which they spread over their feathers while preening. The oil helps waterproof their feathers and keeps them dry as they swim. However, when the ducklings are born, this gland is not fully developed, meaning they are unable to waterproof themselves. To help her ducklings, the mother will rub her own oils over them while she preens or by rubbing her oiled feathers along their down feathers.
Ducklings communicate with each other through vocalisations such as soft chirping. If they get separated from their group or mother, you’ll often hear this lone chirp get louder and faster, particularly when they’re in a panic.
Ducklings
4.
Failed Broods
While mallards will generally only have one clutch of ducklings a year, with the survival rate of ducklings being so low, if she loses her ducklings early into the year, or if it’s a particularly warm/long summer, she may return to have a second clutch within the same year.
Most of the time, they’ll return to their previous nesting location if it’s still available.
DOs:
Do give them space: If you come across a mallard nest, it’s important to give them plenty of space. She’s likely to be very protective of her nest and can become stressed if humans or animals get too close.
Do observe from a distance: If you want to observe the mallard, do so quietly from afar using binoculars. Avoid disturbing the nest or causing unnecessary stress to the hen.
Keep pets away: Keep curious pets away from any nests and ducklings.
Do monitor the situation: If the mother has left the nest for a short time, you can monitor the nest from a distance to make sure she returns. However, don’t try to “rescue” eggs or ducklings unless they’re in immediate danger (as mallards are very protective of their nests and can abandon their young if disturbed too much), contact a rescue for advice instead.
DON’Ts:
Don’t touch the eggs or ducklings: Mallard mothers are very protective of their eggs and young, and if you handle them, the mother might abandon them. It is also an offense under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
Don’t disturb the nest: If you find a mallard nest, move away and do not disturb them again.
Don’t feed them near their nest: Feeding mallards (especially near nests) can encourage rodents into the area, which will prey upon the eggs and any young ducklings.
Don’t intervene unless necessary: If you find abandoned eggs or injured ducklings, avoid intervening unless necessary and call a rescue for advice.
Don’t block their path: Once the ducklings hatch, the mother will know where she wants to go. Ensure there are no obstacles or barriers that could prevent the mother from guiding her ducklings to safety, and if they’re near a busy road, warn traffic and, if safe to do so, ask traffic to stop if they look like they’re wanting to cross.