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Global Animal Guide

Mallard vs Emperor Penguin

Quick answer

In a hypothetical one-on-one, the Emperor Penguin would most likely come out on top in most encounters, thanks to its more dangerous natural weapons and greater size and power. In reality, animals like these rarely meet, and both would usually avoid a fight.

This is a hypothetical, educational comparison based on typical size, strength, and natural weaponry. In the wild these animals rarely meet, and most encounters end without a fight.

By , Founder Last reviewed How we research & review
Male mallard duck with green head on pond Power 24

Bird

Least Concern
Mallard
Weight 1.2 kg
Length 60 cm
Top speed 80 km/h
Strength 10/100
Deadliness 5/100
Intelligence 42/100
Lifespan 10 yr
Emperor penguin with a chick standing on Antarctic ice Winner Power 34

Bird

Near Threatened
Emperor Penguin
Weight 40 kg
Length 1.2 m
Top speed 12 km/h
Strength 30/100
Deadliness 18/100
Intelligence 60/100
Lifespan 20 yr

Mallard vs Emperor Penguin compared

Side-by-side comparison of the Mallard and the Emperor Penguin
Attribute Mallard Emperor Penguin
Weight 1.2 kg 40 kg
Length 60 cm 1.2 m
Top speed 80 km/h 12 km/h
Strength 10/100 30/100
Deadliness 5/100 18/100
Intelligence 42/100 60/100
Lifespan 10 yr 20 yr

Mallard vs Emperor Penguin: common questions

Who would win in a fight, a Mallard or a Emperor Penguin?

In a hypothetical one-on-one, the Emperor Penguin would most likely come out on top in most encounters, thanks to its more dangerous natural weapons and greater size and power. In reality, animals like these rarely meet, and both would usually avoid a fight.

Which is bigger, the Mallard or the Emperor Penguin?

The Emperor Penguin is heavier, weighing around 40 kg compared with the other's 1.2 kg.

Which is faster, the Mallard or the Emperor Penguin?

The Mallard is faster, reaching about 80 km/h versus 12 km/h.

Which lives longer, the Mallard or the Emperor Penguin?

The Emperor Penguin typically lives longer, up to around 20 years compared with 10 years.

Sources & references

Size, speed, and conservation data are drawn from established zoological references. Compare full profiles for habitat, diet, and behaviour:

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