The Black Duck is on a slippery slope with the aggressive Mallards out breeding and inbreeding with this eastern species and taking over suitable habitat. As the Mallard is introduced or spreads into these marginal habitats the Black genes are overcome and the numbers of Black Ducks are in decline. These three photos were taken in Crittenden Co. Ark on 12-13-04. This photo is of a typical male Black Duck, note the light cheek patch, dark crown and overall blackish brown coloration and the bill is an even olive color.