Mandarin Duck
Image: qweru (cc-by-nc)
NameMandarin Duck
Common NameMandarin Duck
Scientific NameAix galericulata
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)70
Length (cm)45
Weight (g)500
Plumage DetailsMales in breeding plumage are exceptionally ornate, featuring a red bill, a large white crescent above the eye with a dark stripe, reddish-brown face and 'whiskers,' a purple breast with two white bars, golden-orange 'sails' on the back, and iridescent green and blue on the head and back. Females are duller, with a white eye-ring and stripe extending back from the eye, a small white spot on the flank, and mottled grey-brown plumage.
Vocalization / CallMales produce a high-pitched, whistling 'wheep' or 'creak,' while females emit a soft 'quack' or 'cluck.' They are generally quiet birds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswooded lakes, ponds, rivers, marshes, forests
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to East Asia (China, Japan, Korea, parts of Russia). Feral populations exist in parts of Europe (e.g., UK) and North America due to escapes from captivity.
Identifying Featuresornate male plumage, orange 'sails' on male's back, white crescent above male's eye, red bill on male, white eye-ring and stripe on female
Description
The Mandarin Duck is a medium-sized, perching duck native to East Asia, renowned for the male's strikingly colorful and elaborate plumage. They are typically found in wooded areas near water, where they feed on a varied diet. Males are particularly distinctive with their unique 'sails' on the back.
