What type of duck is a falcon most likely to take when it breaks from the flock in a steep climb?

When a falcon breaks from the flock during a steep climb, it typically targets ducks that are more likely to be separated and have less escape chance. Female mallards often have a more consistent flight pattern compared to their male counterparts, especially when they are part of a fleeing group. As they tend to be slightly larger than male mallards and have more established flight orientations, they become an easier target for a falcon hunting in that moment.

Additionally, female mallards can sometimes be less vigilant than males, especially when they feel secure in a large group. This can make them more susceptible to predation at the moment when the flock takes flight. Other types of ducks, such as the black duck and the wood duck, may exhibit different flight behaviors that could make them less preferable targets during such an encounter. Therefore, the behavior and characteristics of female mallards align them more closely with what a falcon would seek out under those circumstances.