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Common name:
MANDARIN DUCKScientific name:
Aix galericulataClass:
BirdsOrder:
AnseriformiFamily:
AnatidiProvenence:
Eastern Asia – EuropeDiet:
insects – larvae – small fish – acorns – aquatic plantsHabitat:
Inland forestsReproduction:
Spawn: 9-12 – Incubation: 24 days -
The Mandarin Duck is called Mandarin because during the mating season, the male has a plumage that is similar to that of the colourful, festive dresses of Chinese mandarins. It is easily recognized by the bright orange feathers on its back and along its neck, and its green pointed tail and blue breast.
The female is brown with white spots on the breast and around the eyes. The mandarin duck lives in the internal waters of wooded areas. It usually rests on branches and searches for cavities to nest. It lays around 10 eggs and nests for 30 days.