Partial Pigment, Pure Genetics! Huge congratulations to Meghan Gaudette on harvesting this absolutely stunning 100% American Black Duck in Massachusetts last October! We are also excited to reshare a favorite many of you may remember, Mike Wec’s unique 100% American Black Duck from December 2023, also harvested in Massachusetts. Though strikingly different in appearance, both birds are rare and beautiful examples of leucism, a genetic condition that causes partial pigment loss in feathers. Unlike albinism, which results in the total absence of melanin, the pigment responsible for coloration in skin, feathers, and eyes, leucism involves only a partial loss of melanin. This can create patterns of white feathers, like the flecked spots you see in Meghan’s bird, while the rest of the duck’s natural dark coloration remains intact or it can act across all the feathers in the bird as seen in Mike’s American Black Duck. (fb)

Big news for conservation! Thanks to a new $500k commitment, our partnership with @BassProShops and the Cabela’s Outdoor Fund is taking a major leap forward. This latest investment will help permanently protect nearly 1,400 acres in the Prairie Pothole Region—the heart of North America’s waterfowl breeding grounds. Plus a huge thank you to every Bass Pro Shops customer who chose to round up their dollar for conservation! Your support is protecting wetlands, wildlife, and outdoor traditions for generations to come! Click the link below to learn more! https://www.ducks.org/newsroom/du-bass-pro-shops-partnership-allows-hunters-and-anglers-to-protect-waterfowl-habitat (fb)