Mandarin Duck

Habitat: Often found in parks. In its native range (East Asia) forests.

Appearance: Introduced to Europe from China. In Europe, a popular park bird, which also mingles with semi-domesticated Mallards and is beginning to become feral in some areas. In Belgium and the Netherlands, a year-round resident, a rare breeding bird, and a winter visitor in small numbers.

Breeding season: April–July. A cavity nester, usually in trees. 9–12 eggs.

Characteristics: Length 41–49 cm, wingspan 65–75 cm, weight 440–650 g, lifespan 15 years.

Food: Mainly plant matter, including nuts and seeds. Also various invertebrates.