What is the general color of the female Wood Duck's plumage in contrast to the male's vibrancy?
Answer
Considerably more subdued, primarily displaying various shades of grayish-brown
The female Wood Duck, or hen, presents a striking contrast to the spectacularly colored male (drake). Her overall plumage is considerably more subdued and muted, designed primarily for effective camouflage within shaded nesting locales. The primary coloration observed on the female is various shades of grayish-brown across most of her body. While her chest may show some white flecking, the overall effect is muted, especially when compared to the male's iridescent head, purplish-chestnut chest, and buffy-yellow flanks. This subtle palette ensures she blends into the woodland and wetland environments where she nests.
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