Why does the male mallard duck have a green head?

The iridescent green head of the male mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) is a result of structural coloration, not pigment. Microscopic layers in the feathers reflect light at specific wavelengths, producing the vivid metallic green. This striking plumage evolved through sexual selection, signaling genetic fitness to females during courtship, especially in autumn and winter when breeding season approaches.

How can this Photo be used?

Licensed commercially on Kataloop, this stock photo suits nature magazines, environmental NGOs, ornithology educational content, and wildlife conservation campaigns. The resolution exceeding 49 megapixels makes it equally viable for large-format print applications such as posters, exhibitions, or calendars, where fine feather detail adds visible value.

What mood does this Photo convey?

The drake stands calmly on the shoreline rocks, gaze directed forward. Muted browns and grays of reeds and stones contrast with the vivid green head and orange feet. The still water in the background reinforces a sense of quiet and ordinary life in a natural setting.

What equipment was used to capture this Photo?

The extraordinary detail in this stock photo comes from the Sony ILCE-1 and its 50-megapixel sensor. At 8640 x 5760 pixels, individual feather textures on the mallard drake are rendered with precision. The Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS Contemporary lens allowed a natural shooting distance, keeping the bird relaxed and the composition undisturbed.

What visual style or trend does this Photo represent?

Unstaged, authentic wildlife imagery is gaining ground in visual communication. This photo documents the mallard in its real habitat without editorial manipulation. For topics such as biodiversity, habitat restoration, and urban waterway conservation, it provides a credible visual reference that resonates with fact-oriented audiences.

Mallard duck by the water’s edge in natural habitat

Name: Mallard duck by the water’s edge in natural habitat
Brand: Kataloop
Price: 16 EUR
Availability: InStock

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Mallard duck by the water’s edge in natural habitat

Kataloop stock photo no.

6860194

8640

5760

36488702

SONY ILCE-1

100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary 020

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Mallard duck by the water’s edge in natural habitat

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Why does the male mallard duck have a green head?

How can this photo be used?

What mood does this photo convey?

What equipment was used to capture this photo?

What visual style or trend does this photo represent?

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