Limited Series | Blonde Hen

The mallard purist’s dream duck. The term “Blonde Hen” is ingrained in waterfowling culture. These lady mallards come in a variety of diluted pigments that cause their plumage to have off-white to golden characteristics, a condition known as “leucism” in the scientific world. On the wing there is no mistaking them. Their primaries glow as if internally illuminated. Speculums range from black to copper. The black on the saddles of their bills can be naturally dark, or non-existent. Oftentimes the lack of melanin in the leading edges of their flight feathers cause extensive wear or damage. Yet they are always a sight to behold, and new science is revealing the mysteries behind these beauties.

Genetic analysis by duckDNA—the innovative project led by Ducks Unlimited and the University of Texas at El Paso—shows that many birds with leucistic traits or other odd patterns of white plumage can be traced to game-farm lineages. Yet a presumably smaller number have been confirmed 100% genetically wild, embodying the randomness and rare beauty that only nature can provide.

This DSD Limited Series decoy is a representation of the holy grail of mallard hens, inspired by a specimen genetically confirmed as 100% wild. Using our ACE Mallard hen sculpture, she is hand painted to our highest standards for a lifelike appearance that pays homage to Blonde Hens.

Each decoy comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, marking its place in the DSD Limited lineup. The Blonde Hen is the perfect addition to any shelf but is tough enough to hunt over from opening day to the closer.

Made in the U.S.A.

Includes: (1) Limited Series Blonde Hen Mallard Decoy and (1) Certificate of Authenticity.