Ms. Mallard -- Female Mallard Duck in Atascadero Lake Park, California Round Beach Towel

While male birds get most of the attention due to their generally more colorful patterns, this female Mallard has a beauty all her own as she flies over Atascadero Lake in central California.

Fun Mallard Facts:

> Mallard Ducks are the most widespread and abundant duck in North America.

> Nearly all domestic breeds of duck originated with the Mallard
> They are strong fliers and have been estimated to travel at speeds up to 55 miles per hour.

> The standard duck "quack" is the sound of a female Mallard. Males don't quack.

> Mallards lose all their flight feathers at the end of breeding season and are unable to fly for three to four weeks.

> They often breed with other duck species - to the point where some species are in danger of becoming extinct due to hybridization.

I have been photographing the things I see for over thirty years. A resident of San Luis Obispo County, I'm lucky to have many excellent photo destinations within a few minutes' or hours' drive. Beyond the local area, I have traveled throughout California and the western United States, visited far away American destinations such as Chicago, New York, Florida, and Alaska, and international destinations in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. My photography varies from Architecture to Industrial Art to Nature to Wildlife and I'm sure you'll find something suitable for your home or office. Visit my blog