Mandarin Duck

Aix galericulata

Widely considered one of the world's most beautiful ducks, the male Mandarin is a riot of orange 'sail' feathers, whiskered orange cheeks, a purple breast, and iridescent green. Native to East Asian wooded ponds, feral populations now thrive in Britain and Europe. It nests in tree cavities high above the water.

Fun Fact

Mandarin ducklings leap from tree-hole nests dozens of feet up, bouncing unhurt before following their mother to water.