Mandarin Duck

The mandarin duck (Aix galericulata) is a medium-sized perching duck native to East Asia, but with introduced populations in Western Europe, the British Isles, and parts of North America. It measures about 41-51 cm (16-20 in) in length with a wingspan of 65-75 cm (26-30 in). Males are renowned for their striking plumage, featuring a combination of iridescent orange, blue, and green feathers, a crest, and a distinctive broad white eye-stripe. Females are more subdued in coloration, but still more striking than many other female ducks, displaying a grey-brown plumage with white spots, a white eye-ring and narrow white eye-stripe.

Mandarin ducks primarily inhabit dense and shrubby forested areas around lakes, marshes, and ponds. They prefer environments with abundant vegetation, providing cover and food. The introduced populations in Europe tend to be found in more open habitats than the native populations in East Asia. Their diet consists of seeds, acorns, aquatic plants, and small invertebrates. They forage by dabbling and tipping rather than diving, often feeding at dawn or dusk.

Mandarin ducks are partial migrants. While some populations in milder climates may remain resident year-round, those in colder regions migrate to avoid harsh winter conditions. They typically migrate southward, with significant wintering populations found in southern China and Japan. Introduced populations in Europe do not migrate and are resident year round.

The breeding season for mandarin ducks begins in April and extends through July. These ducks are monogamous, often forming long-term pair bonds. Nesting usually occurs in tree cavities near water, where the female lays 9-12 eggs. She incubates the eggs for about 28-30 days. Once hatched, the ducklings leave the nest within a day and follow their mother to water, where they learn to swim and feed. The fledging period lasts approximately 40-45 days.

Mandarin ducks have been introduced to various regions outside their native range, including parts of Western Europe, the British Isles, and North America. They were brought to these areas as ornamental birds for parks and private collections. In many of these locations, established feral populations have developed. Their impact on native ecosystems varies, but they generally coexist without causing significant harm.

The mandarin duck is currently listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List. Some of the wild populations face threats from habitat loss and hunting, and numbers are believed to be somewhat decreasing within its native range. The species seems to do well overall, thanks in part to the large number of birds in captivity and introduced populations.