The male mandarin duck has the most elaborate and ornate plumage with distinctive long orange feathers on the side of the face, orange ‘sails’ on the back, and pale orange flanks.The female is dull by comparison with a grey head and white stripe behind the eye, brown back and mottled flanks.
They were introduced to the UK from China and have become established following escapes from captivity.
Seen at Pauls Pond and Golden Acre Park.