A flamboyant splash of colour on any pond, this eye-catching waterfowl is one of the most beautiful species of birds on the planet.

Visual Identification

Appearance

The Mandarin Duck is renowned for its striking, colourful plumage, particularly in males. Males display a vibrant mix of orange, green, purple, and white, with a distinctive red bill and fan-shaped crest.

Females are much more understated, with mottled brown and grey feathers, a white eye ring, and a thin white stripe behind the eye. Both sexes have orange feet and legs.

Young ducklings start life with a covering of downy brown and golden feathers. Older juveniles look much like adult females, although they are less clearly spotted and duller overall.

Size

Length

41cm to 49cm

Wingspan

65cm to 75cm

Weight

400g to 750g

Colours

Primary Colour

Orange Green Purple

Secondary Colour

White Blue Red

Beak Colour

Red

Leg Colour

Orange

Habitat and Distribution

Habitats

Woodland

Garden

Wetland

Coastal

Urban

Farmland

Grassland

Desert

Tundra

Rainforest

Mountain

Savanna

Distribution

Native to East Asia, including Japan, China, and Russia, Mandarin Ducks prefer wooded areas near lakes, ponds, and rivers. They have a particular affinity for areas with overhanging vegetation and quiet, sheltered waters.

Introduced populations have established in the UK and other parts of Europe. In the UK, they are widely distributed in southeast England, with smaller populations elsewhere, often found in urban parks and gardens with suitable water bodies.

Elevation Range

Up to 1,500 meters

Climate zones

Temperate, Subtropical

Distribution Map

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Resident
Breeding
Non-breeding
Vagrant

Distribution by Region

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Behaviour and Ecology

Bird Attributes

Tap the icon next to each attribute for more information.

Agility 85
Strength 60
Adaptability 80
Aggressiveness 40
Endurance 70

Diet

Mandarin Ducks have a varied diet, including aquatic plants, seeds, insects, and small fish. They often forage by dabbling in shallow water or on land and are known to eat acorns and other tree nuts in wooded areas.

Their ability to perch allows them to access food sources unavailable to other duck species. These dabbling ducks do not dive but will upend to feed on aquatic plants growing under the water.

Behaviour

Mandarin Ducks are known for their agile flight through wooded areas, often perching on tree branches. They are generally shy and wary, quickly taking flight when disturbed.

During the breeding season, males perform elaborate courtship displays, including head-bobbing and wing-lifting.

Vocalisation

Mandarin Ducks are relatively quiet compared to other ducks. Males produce a distinct, low-pitched whistle-like 'uib-uib' during courtship and when alarmed.

Females make a soft, low quacking sound, often heard when communicating with ducklings. Both sexes may emit a short, sharp whistle in flight.

Nesting & Breeding

Mandarin Ducks form monogamous pairs during the breeding season, which typically begins in spring. Males court females with elaborate displays, including shaking their crests and calling.

Nests are usually located in tree cavities, sometimes up to 30 feet high. Females lay 9-12 cream-coloured eggs in a down-lined nest. Nests in artificial nest boxes are also common, especially in introduced populations.

Incubation lasts about 30 days, carried out solely by the female. Ducklings leave the nest within 24 hours of hatching, jumping from great heights to the ground or water below, guided by their mother's calls.

Lifespan

Typical Lifespan Range 6 - 9 years
0
3
6
8
11

years

The Mandarin Duck typically lives for 6 to 9 years.

Like all birds, lifespan can be affected by factors including predation, habitat quality, disease, and access to food sources.

Conservation and Status

Global Conservation Status

Least Concern [1]

While the Mandarin Duck is not globally threatened, its native populations in East Asia have declined due to habitat loss and hunting.

In contrast, introduced populations in Europe, particularly in the UK, have thrived, creating a unique conservation scenario.

Population Data

Global Population Estimate

65,000 - 66,000 individuals [2]

Global Population Trend

Decreasing[3]

Birdwatching Tips

  • Look for Mandarin Ducks in wooded ponds and streams
  • Listen for their characteristic whistle-like call
  • Observe early morning or late evening when they're most active
  • In the UK, check ornamental ponds in parks and gardens
  • Use binoculars to spot their distinctive plumage in dense vegetation

Additional Information

Quick Facts

Other names:

Chinese Duck

Family:

Anatidae

Predators

Main predators include large birds of prey, foxes, raccoon dogs, and in some areas, mink.

Did You Know?

  1. Mandarin Ducks can perch and nest in trees, unlike most other duck species.
  2. They are considered symbols of fidelity and love in Chinese culture.
  3. The male's elaborate plumage is shed after the breeding season, resembling the female's duller colouration.

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References

  1. 1

    website: BirdLife International. 2018. Aix galericulata. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2018: e.T22680107A131911544.

    View source
  2. 2 3

    report, 2006: Wetlands International