Bad boy Mallards

[marxette]

I have 6 mallards, 2 are year old males. All has been happy until lately when the two males have chased two of the girls out of the flock. Won't let them near the water or food. Does anyone know if this is normal behavior? Will it pass or do I have to get rid of the males? I also have 6 female Pekins in the flock.

 

[sourland]

In my experience mallards have tended to develop pair bonds with one hen, and although they will mate with others they chase them away from their mates. As we progress into summer and autumn they will probably resume a more mellow flock temperament.