Preening Mallard Duck at Sunset Bay, White Rock Lake

Ducks need to protect themselves against becoming water-logged whilst swimming, and in wet weather. They do this by keeping their feathers in top condition by preening themselves on a regular basis.This series of images of a Mallard duck preening itself was captured at Sunset Bay, White Rock Lake in east Dallas.

A Mallard hen preens herself at Sunset Bay, White Rock Lake

Ducks bathe often to remove dirt from their feathers. Using their bills, they comb the barbs on their feathers so that the barbules and even smaller hooks called barbicelli interlock and form a protective layer to repel water.

A Mallard hen has dull, brown feathers used as camouflage

The process of preening removes parasites and scales that cover newly sprouting feathers, but also involves the spreading of oil over clean feathers.

Preening removes parasites and scales that cover newly
sprouting feathers

Beneath the water-proof coat are fluffy and soft feathers that keep the duck warm.

A Mallard hen preening herself

There is a gland called the 'Preen Gland' near the duck’s tail. The duck uses this patch to roll and stroke its head over the oil.

The 'Preen Gland' is near the duck’s tail

The head is then rubbed over the body feathers to spread the oil evenly. This keeps the feathers bright and supple, and allows water to run off in droplets – hence the expression “like like water off a duck’s back.”

The process of preening involves the spreading of oil over clean feathers

And after all that hard work, it was finally time to tuck in for a quick snooze. Ducks sleep with half their brains awake and their eyes open. This enables them to see approaching predators.

Ducks sleep with half their brains awake and their eyes open

Compared to the male, the Mallard female duck (called a 'hen') has dull, brown feathers used as camouflage so that they can hide from their enemies and predators. The camouflage also helps nesting females to blend in better, and offers greater protection for the ducklings.

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