Mandarin Ducks: Aix galericulata.
The Mandarins are a species of wood duck. They originate from Japan and North East China. They have since colonised in the Uk as they have escaped from captivity and adapted to the Uk environment.
They are regarded as one of the most ornate and beautiful of all the wildfowl. The male has a green crown that tappers to a crest behind. His cheeks are buff coloured along with a buff coloured ruff around his throat. Perhaps the most prominant part of his plumage is his orange sails which resemble ships sails whilst on water. He has a white under body and a bright red red. When in eclipse plumage the male Mandarin will resemble his female counterpart but remains red in the bill. Female Mandarins look similar to famle Carolinas but on closer inspection have major differences. She is more marbled on her sides and of a streamline body shape.
In orient art the Mandarin is often depicted and is associated with affection and fidelity.
I keep a trio here at home. And am anticipating breeding this year. They lay smallish buff eggs about 5cm x 3.5 cm. Nesting in raised nest boxes accessible via a small ladder. Incubation lasts 28-30 days with clutches consisting of about 10 eggs. The ducklings are regarded as difficult to rear and as with all wildfowl breeding is regarded as a triumph.
