Aix galericulata

Mandarin Duck - The feral population of this exotic looking duck was established in Britain from around the 20th century. And in Ireland from around 1978. Since then they have graced some of our lakes with the stunning beauty of their plumage. Originally from Asia, the native Asian birds continue to decline through persecution and habitat loss. The British and Irish population has become increasingly important and there may now be more birds here than in China. These photographs were taken in Derbyshire and Staffordshire England.