The
mandarin duck (
Aix galericulata) is a
perching duck species
endemic to East Asia but since introduced to Europe and the United States. It is medium-sized, at 41–49 cm (16–19 in) long with a 65–75 cm (26–30 in) wingspan. The species mainly eats plants and
seeds, especially
beech mast. It will also add snails, insects and small fish to its diet.
This specimen was photographed in Richmond Park, London.Photograph: David Iliff