Mottled Duck

The subjects are identified as Mottled Ducks based on their mottled brown body plumage, bright orange legs, and distinctive bill pattern. The bill is yellowish-olive with a dark patch (saddle) on the culmen, which is a key field mark for this species. This identification is further supported by the geographic location in Sarasota, Florida, which is the core of the Mottled Duck's native range, distinguishing it from similar species like the American Black Duck or female Mallard.