Mandarin Duck
Image: qweru (cc-by-nc)
NameMandarin Duck
Common NameMandarin Duck
Scientific NameAix galericulata
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)45
Weight (g)500
Plumage DetailsMale Mandarin Ducks are strikingly colorful with a red bill, large white crescent above the eye, and reddish-brown face. They have a purple breast with two white vertical bars, flanked by two orange 'sails' on the back, and iridescent green-bronze crest feathers. Females are duller, with a white eye-ring and stripe extending back from the eye, a small white flank stripe, and a grey bill.
Vocalization / CallMales produce a high-pitched 'crek-crek' or 'prrr' sound, while females emit a soft 'quack' or 'gegege' call. 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, Russian Far East). Feral populations exist in parts of Europe (e.g., UK) and North America due to escapes from captivity.
Identifying Featuresmale's elaborate colorful plumage, orange 'sails' on back, white crescent above eye (male), white eye-ring and stripe (female), perching duck behavior
Description
The Mandarin Duck is a medium-sized, perching duck native to East Asia, renowned for the male's elaborate and colorful plumage. They are often found in dense, wooded areas near freshwater, where they forage for seeds, plants, and small invertebrates.
