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I just posted a blog on this species @ http://birdsandbloomsblog.com/2012/03/22...
The red on the crown really does not extend all the way to the forehead as on Ladder-backed. Also, per Sibley, there is a solid black patch on upper back just below head and I see that on this bird. Other characteristics not clearly seen on photos
There is really no way to tell for sure what the Mallard mated with. Mallards are well known as willing to mate with a wide range of waterfowl, often domestic ducks but even some geese.
