Mallard

IA Mallard Hunting Guide

IAWaterfowl
Anas platyrhynchosIowaWaterfowl

Also known as: Greenhead (male), Mallard duck

The mallard or wild duck is a dabbling duck that breeds throughout the temperate and subtropical Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa. It has been introduced to New Zealand, Australia, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, the Falkland Islands, and South Africa. Belonging to the subfamily Anatinae of the waterfowl family Anatidae, mallards live in wetlands, eat water plants and small animals, and are social animals preferring to congregate in groups or flocks of varying sizes.

Hunting Season

Three segments per zone (North/Central/South), spanning October through December 2026. Check Iowa migratory game bird regulations for exact dates.

Bag Limit: Part of the overall duck limit (typically 6 ducks daily in Mississippi Flyway). Species-specific restrictions apply. Check current regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Regulations for hunting Mallard in Iowa

Mallard hunting follows federal migratory bird regulations under the Mississippi Flyway. HIP registration and federal duck stamp (age 16+) are required. Non-toxic shot is required. Season dates and limits are divided into North, Central, and South zones.

When is Mallard hunting season in Iowa?

Three segments per zone (North/Central/South), spanning October through December 2026. Check Iowa migratory game bird regulations for exact dates.

What is the bag limit for Mallard in Iowa?

Part of the overall duck limit (typically 6 ducks daily in Mississippi Flyway). Species-specific restrictions apply. Check current regulations.

What is another name for Mallard?

Mallard is also known as Greenhead (male), Mallard duck in Iowa.

References

State Category Directory Subcategory Content Source
Iowa Hunting Regulations Season Dates Three segments per zone (North/Central/South), spanning October through December 2026. Check Iowa migratory game bird re Link
Iowa Hunting Regulations Regulations Mallard hunting follows federal migratory bird regulations under the Mississippi Flyway. HIP registration and federal du Link