Mottled Duck (<i><a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Anas_fulvigula" title="Anas fulvigula">Anas fulvigula</a></i>). Something about this duck told me it might not be a Mallard, so I took some pains to try to get a decent shot, despite the lighting. Viewing the photo I questioned whether it might be Mottled Duck, a life bird for us west-coasters. Sent photo to some of my Birds-Pix friends, who in turn sent it to some experts, and the work came back "Mottled Duck, for sure". Much like the Mallard hen, but note the pale crown and definite black spot at the gape, as well as the buffy warm cheek.
<a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/9062441@N02">Len Blumin</a> from Mill Valley, California, United States
CC BY 2.0
<a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/9062441@N02/2112211536/">Mottled Duck</a>