Hybrid Duck question in Toronto (1 Viewer)

[Norm_Toronto]

Hi all,

I saw this duck in High Park today and assumed it was a hybrid between a Mallard and an American Black Duck. It was with a large flock of Mallards which also included 3 or 4 American Black Ducks. But I'm puzzled by the red neck. None of the photos I see on the net for this combo have a rufous neck. Am I missing something?

Best regards,
---Norm

 

[Norm_Toronto]

Another thought. I’ve been reading on the internet, and it now seems that the duck in my photos may be what’s called an “intersex” female? I gather the mechanism is not fully understood, but it sounds like a sort of duck menopause where estrogen levels fall off, resulting in male-like plumage.

Have others seen this too and is there a sense as to how common this is? One discussion I read said they are not uncommonly seen among groups of wintering Mallards?

Best regards,
---Norm

 

[raymie]

This is an intersex Mallard, not a hybrid.