The Mandarin Duck is a colorful waterfowl seen especially in parks and zoos. They live near lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers, feeding on seeds, insects, and plants. They nest in trees unlike most ducks and use hollow trunks for shelter. Some have escaped captivity and formed small wild populations although they are not native.
Characteristics of Mandarin Duck
These birds have quite interesting physical and behavioral characteristics that distinguishes it from other birds.
| General Characteristic | Mandarin Duck’s Feature |
| Scientific Name | Aix galericulata |
| Size | About 16-19 inches long |
| Weight | Around 0.45-0.68 kg |
| Wingspan | 26-30 inches |
| Appearance | Males have bright orange, blue, and purple feathers, while females are brownish-gray |
| Diet | Eats seeds, plants, insects, and small fish |
| Behavior | Often seen in pairs; males perform elaborate romantic displays |
| Flying Ability | Strong flier, often rests in trees |
| Breeding | Nests in tree cavities and lays 9-12 eggs |
Pictures of Mandarin Duck
Price of Mandarin Duck
Mandarin duck pairs typically cost $150 to $300, while rare color mutations like white Mandarins can range from $490 to $729. Prices vary by breeder, age, and color, with some offering special packages or requiring local pickup.
Lifespan of Mandarin Duck
Mandarin ducks live around 10 years in the wild, but predators and harsh weather can shorten their lifespan. They can live up to 15 years in captivity with proper care.
Interesting Features of Mandarin Duck
These small water-borne birds showcase different unique habits that can grab the attention of many people.
1. Males Have Attractive Colors
Male Mandarin ducks have bright orange, green, and blue feathers. This makes them one of the most colorful ducks in the world.
Females have grayish-brown plumage for camouflage. This helps protect them from predators during nesting.
2. Prefer Trees Over Water for Nesting
Mandarins lay their eggs in tree cavities unlike most ducks that nest near water. They choose tall trees near rivers or lakes.
When the ducklings hatch, they take a brave leap from the nest to the ground which is guided only by instinct.
3. Mandarin Ducklings Are Fearless Jumpers
Newborn Mandarin ducklings cannot fly, but they jump from their high nests just a day after hatching.
They bounce off leaves and branches before reaching the ground. This bold start to life is necessary for them to follow their mother to water.
4. Inability to Quack Like Other Ducks
Mandarin ducks are quieter than most duck species. They make soft whistles and clucking sounds instead of quacking.
Their unique vocalizations help them communicate without attracting too much attention from predators.
5. Settle on Tree Branches
Most ducks stay on water or land, but Mandarins can rest on tree branches. Their strong claws and lightweight bodies allow them to grip branches easily. This skill helps them stay safe from predators on the ground.
6. Not Related to Wood Ducks but Look Similar
Mandarin ducks and North American wood ducks have similar features, like colorful feathers and tree-nesting habits.
However, they are not closely related. Their resemblance is an example of convergent evolution, where different species develop similar traits.
7. Migrate in Groups But Stay With Mate
Mandarin ducks migrate in small groups, but mated pairs stick together. Mandarins remain with their chosen partner year after year.
This behavior is different from other duck species that form new pairs each season. This strong bond makes them unique among waterfowl.
8. Males Lose Colors After Breeding Season
Male Mandarins shed their vibrant feathers and develop dull brown plumage after the breeding season.
This seasonal color change helps them blend into their surroundings while they regrow their feathers. They regain their bright appearance as winter approaches.
9. Distinctive “Sail” on Their Wings
Male Mandarins have unique and upright orange feathers on their wings called “sails.” These sails stand out when the duck is at rest.
No other duck species has this feature which makes them easy to identify even from a distance.
10. Prefer Shaded and Quiet Waters
Mandarin ducks avoid large open lakes and prefer small, shaded ponds and slow-moving rivers. They choose habitats with dense vegetation, which offers them protection from predators.
11. They Are Considered Lucky in Feng Shui
Mandarin ducks represent happiness and a strong marriage in Feng Shui. Some people place Mandarin duck figurines in their homes to attract love and harmony.
12. Possess Unique Courtship Dance
Mandarin ducks perform a graceful courtship display. The male bobs his head, spreads his sails, and makes soft whistling sounds to impress the female.
They will stay together for life if she accepts. This reinforces their reputation for loyalty.
13. They Are One of the Few Ducks That Rarely Interbreed
Mandarin ducks almost never interbreed with different species unlike many duck species that crossbreed with others.
Their genetic makeup and courtship preferences keep them distinct. This helps preserve their unique appearance.
Sightseeing of Mandarin Ducks in USA
These ducks are not native to USA but are still seen in some parts of country and in places like zoo and waterparks.
These ducks do not offer much sightseeing and therefore some tips to get good clicks would be handy to go with. Mandarin Ducks are interesting birds to see and observe when on a visit to watch nature’s beauty and wildlife. These ducks are not much attracted to humans and have a silent kind of behavior. They are mostly interested to spend time with their mate and inhabit the calm water of lakes. Mandarin ducks are not native to the USA but can be found in parks, ponds, and private collections, mainly in California, Florida, and New York. They eat seeds, plants, insects, and small fish. In parks, they may also eat grains or food given by visitors. Yes, but they need a proper pond, space to roam, and protection from predators. Some states require permits to own them. Males have bright feathers to attract females, while females have dull colors for camouflage during nesting.
Location
State in Which it is Located
Central Park Pond
New York
Burnaby Lake
Washington
L.A. Arboretum
California
McAlpine Creek Park
North Carolina
Lake Merced
California
Brookside Gardens
Maryland
Piedmont Park
Georgia
Prospect Park Lake
New York
White Rock Lake
Texas
Washington Park Arboretum
Washington
Photography of Mandarin Ducks
Most Asked Question
1. Where do Mandarin ducks live in the USA?
2. What do Mandarin ducks eat?
3. Can you keep a Mandarin duck as a pet?
4. Why are Mandarin ducks so colorful?
