Classic dabbling duck of parks and waterways. Widespread across North America in ponds, parks, wetlands and agricultural areas. A large duck with rounded head and flat, bill for dabbling. Males have iridescent green head, yellow bill, gray body, brown breast and black rear; females mottled brown with orange and brown bill. “Quacks” frequently. Typically dabble for vegetation and aquatic life (rarely diving), or feed on agricultural grain; park birds often accept handouts. Pair bonding begins in fall through winter; nests on ground near water. Lifespan up to 27 years. Population ~ 11 million and stable.