Mandarin Duck

This small, exotic duck is commonly sighted at lakes and parks near trees. The male displays intricate features such as large orangey "sail fins" on its back, streaked orangey cheeks, and a small red bill with a whitish tip. In contrast, the female sports narrow white spectacles on a shaggy gray head, along with bold pale dappled spots running along its flanks and a pale bill tip. These ducks are typically found alone or in pairs but may form larger flocks during winter, often perching on trees above water bodies. Originating from East Asia, they have established wild populations across Western Europe.