Mandarin Duck

Aix galericulata

The Manderin Duck is a perching duck species native to East Asia, but now living in the wild in Britain due to escapes from private collectors.

The adult male is a colourful bird with a red bill, large white crescent about the eye and reddish cheeks, which resemble whiskers. The body consists of a purple breast with two vertical white bars and large orange feathers that stick up like boat sails.

The female is less colourful, grey across most of the body with blotches of white on the underside and around the eye.

Family facts

Mandarin Ducks breed in densely wooded areas near shallow lakes, marshes or ponds. Females will lay a single clutch of 9-12 eggs, incubating the eggs for 28-30 days.

They are known for its soft calls and quiet nature, until mating season, when the male will conjure up a low-pitched half sneeze-link noise, similar to a grunting whistle.