Gadwall

Mareca strepera

The brownish gray overall coloring of this duck may not be exciting, but there is an understated elegance to the Gadwall. On closer inspection, its feathers are a great example of vermiculation, or the dizzying fine-line patterning of the plumage found in many waterfowl, which is present on the breast and lower sides. The female is similar in appearance to the female mallard, but with a darker slimmer bill. Both have a white speculum, or wing patch, which is more visible when in flight.