Mandarin Duck
Aix galericulata
Overview
The Mandarin duck is a perching duck species native to the East Palearctic. It is widely regarded as one of the world's most beautiful ducks due to the male's elaborate and colorful plumage.
Fun Fact
In Chinese culture, Mandarin ducks are believed to mate for life and are symbols of wedded bliss and fidelity, often featured in art.
Physical Characteristics
Males have a red bill, large white eye-stripe, reddish face, and purple breast. Females are greyish-brown.
Behavior & Ecology
They perch in trees and nest in holes high up in the trunks. Unlike other ducks, they are agile fliers through forests.
Diet & Hunting Strategy
They eat seeds, acorns, grains, aquatic plants, insects, snails, and small fish.
Reproduction & Life Cycle
Females lay 9-12 eggs in tree cavities. Ducklings jump from the nest to the ground shortly after hatching.
Human Interaction
Widely kept in ornamental wildfowl collections. Feral populations exist in Europe and North America.
FAQ
What is the scientific name of the Mandarin Duck?
The scientific name of the Mandarin Duck is Aix galericulata.
Where does the Mandarin Duck live?
Dense, shrubby forested edges of rivers and lakes.
What does the Mandarin Duck eat?
Omnivore. They eat seeds, acorns, grains, aquatic plants, insects, snails, and small fish.
How long does the Mandarin Duck live?
The lifespan of the Mandarin Duck is approximately 6-7 years..
