Mallard ducks, absolute rockstars of duck hunting universe. Found throughout Northern Hemisphere, they’re prized for their beauty, size, and succulence. Practically the entire dabbling duck hunting playbook was scripted for mallards. But did you know there are 13 mallard-like species worldwide (both hemispheres among 5 continents)? They share similar habitats, vocalizations and behavior, but why does only the iconic Mallard have colorful breeding plumage? From which of the 13 did they all originate?! Dr. Phil Lavretsky and I deep dive into the woodpile on mallards, mallard-like genetic studies, artificial intelligence, hybridization; farm duck origins, influences, and management implications. Guaranteed to be one of the most interesting and enlightening waterfowl conversations you’ve heard in a long while!