By Sheetal Kumari | November 19, 2025
The Mandarin duck is renowned globally because of its striking colours and unmatched beauty.
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The males have bright orange, blue, green, and purple feathers and present one of nature’s most colourful spectacles.
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Its crest and erect “sail” feathers of the male make it instantly recognisable among waterfowl.
Image: Canva
Females appear more plain, with soft grey and white colours that perfectly camouflage them against forest wetlands.
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Mandarin ducks naturally inhabit China, Japan and Korea, thriving in wooded lakes and slow rivers.
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Because pairs often stay together for life, in many Asian cultures Mandarin ducks symbolise devotion.
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Males lose their brilliant colours after breeding and turn brownish until the forthcoming season.
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Ducklings leap from tree-nesting holes to follow their mothers to the water below.
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Through introduced populations, Mandarin ducks now appear in parks and ponds around the world.
Image: Canva
The Mandarin duck is a favourite among bird lovers everywhere, with unmatched beauty and charm.
Image: Canva