Another established non-native bird.
Mandarin Ducks were introduced from the Far East, They escaped, or were deliberately released, from captivity in the UK. A rather shy bird, often seen hiding beneath overhanging bushes, they form small flocks. The male bird has very elaborate and decorative plumage with distinctive orange feathers on the side of the face, a purple chest, and large orange feathers which look like small sails on its back. The female is not brightly coloured, with a grey head, white stripe behind the eye, brown back, and mottled lower sides. There was a flock of 10 birds today on the pond I visited today {the most I have seen there.}
These ducks nest in holes in trees, sometimes high up and a long way from the water. After the ducklings hatch, the female will coax the young to jump from the nest. Once they have left the tree make their way back to the water. The Drake will return to the family and help to protect the ducklings
Continued Reflections from my World. 
I’ve always admired their plumage!
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So unreal, and I forgot these when you asked about introduced birds when you commented on the Parakeet post.
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These are extraordinarily beautiful, Andy!
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On such a wet and dull day in the New Forest their beautiful colours were a joy just to watch and brighten up my day.
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They sure are stunning-looking birds – I have to enjoy your Mandarin Ducks as I doubt I will ever see one here.
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Maybe one day Linda until then enjoy ours.
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Hopefully Andy and yes I will – I always enjoy when you post about this little flock/paddle of Mandarins.
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Beautiful colors!
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