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The Mallard 
ever, which has kept most of the wild traits; but constant care must 
be taken to introduce new blood into a stock by securing new wild drakes, 
or it will degenerate. Mallards, captured wild, like other wild ducks, 
are backward about breeding at first, though less so than other species. 
The usual hand-reared stock is amply prolific. All that is needed is the 
usual small pond. They are not particular about having access to a 
marsh, but will lay almost anywhere, making nests under any slight 
shelter, such as brush-piles, boxes, coops, wicker-baskets, logs, grass, 
and other growth. Some eggs may be dropped on the ground of the 
enclosure, or in the water, where they will be spoiled by chill. Mallards 
are not easily disturbed, and the eggs may be collected daily, leaving 
a couple of their own or artificial eggs.” 
Classification and Distribution 
The Mallard belongs to the Order Anseres, the Family Anatidce, and Sub- 
family Anatince (fresh-water ducks). Its scientific name is Anas platyrhynchos. 
The species ranges and breeds throughout all North America, especially west of 
the Alleghanies; and retires in winter south of the line of frozen ponds and 
streams. 
This and other Educational Leaflets are for sale, at 5 cents each, by the National Association of 
Audubon Societies, 1974 Broadway, New York City. Lists given on request. 
