ExploreBirds

Mandarin Duck

Aix galericulata

Mandarin Ducks are colorful birds that look like they are wearing fancy clothes! They love to swim and can be found near ponds and lakes, where they play and splash around.

Habitat: Wetlands

Appearance

The Mandarin Duck is renowned for the male's spectacular plumage, featuring a metallic green and purple crest, broad orange 'sails' on its back, and a vibrant rufous collar. Its face has a striking white crescent above the eye. Females are more subdued, with grey heads and white eye-rings.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderAnseriformesFamilyAnatidaeGenusAix
Mandarin Duck
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Mandarin Duck

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Baby Mandarin ducks bravely jump from high tree holes just one day after hatching!

In Asia, Mandarin Ducks symbolize lasting love and fidelity, often seen in beautiful art!

Mandarin Ducks are super close relatives of the famous North American Wood Duck!

The male's amazing 'sails' on its back are actually special modified flight feathers!

Special abilities

Ability

Tree Percher

Mandarin Ducks can perch high in trees because of their strong claws, helping them avoid predators and find safe nesting spots.

Ability

Cavity Nester

Mandarin Ducks have special nesting habits, laying eggs deep inside tree cavities that protect their eggs and ducklings.

Ability

Diving Dynamo

Mandarin Ducks can dive underwater using their webbed feet, helping them snatch up tasty submerged plants and insects.

Measurements & details

Length
41-49 cm
Wingspan
65-75 cm
Weight
0.44-0.69 kg
Lifespan
6-10 years
Top Speed
65 km/h
Clutch Size
9-12
Incubation
28-30 days

Diet & Feeding

Mandarin Ducks enjoy a mix of seeds, plants, and small critters found in and around water.

Age differences: Ducklings eat more insects for protein; adults shift to more plant material.

Primary Foods

  • acorns
  • seeds
  • aquatic plants
  • insects
  • snails
  • small fish

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always watch ducks from a distance and don't feed them bread.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Mandarin Duck?

41-49 cm

What is Mandarin Duck's wingspan?

65-75 cm

How much does Mandarin Duck weigh?

0.44-0.69 kg

How long does Mandarin Duck live?

6-10 years

How fast can Mandarin Duck move?

65 km/h

What does Mandarin Duck eat?

Mandarin Ducks enjoy a mix of seeds, plants, and small critters found in and around water.

Where is Mandarin Duck usually found?

Wetlands

How does Mandarin Duck hunt?

Foraging

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Where to spot

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