I understand that you have mallard, but I given a choice, I rarely if ever utilize mallard.

Instead, I prefer Gadwall, green wing teal, wood duck, pin tail, northern shoveler, European Widgeon, or a host of other drake flank feathers.

Why? I tend to prefer a stronger (i.e. darker) "tick" and often a bit more feather color than that found on most mallard flank feathers...

I do understand that ya' use what ya' got! But next hunting season, ask your duck hunting friends, you may be surprised at the neat variety of feathers out there...