Mandarin Ducks Pair

Description

Mandarin ducks (Aix galericul) originate from East Asia and are one of most vividly colorful of duck species. The male’s plumage consists of vibrant orange, green, purple patches. A distinguishing feature is the large, upright feathers on the male’s back that, when raised, look like sails.

The female Mandarin duck’s plumage is a soft, mottled gray-brown to blend in with the environment when she’s nesting. The female Mandarin is similar in appearance to the female Wood duck, to which Mandarin ducks are related.

In addition to looking somewhat alike, the two species perch in trees and share tree-nesting behavior. To facilitate perching and tree-climbing, Mandarin ducks have strong claws.

Mandarin ducks are quieter than most other ducks. They don’t quack, but instead chirp, whistle, squeak, and coo. But they can shriek when danger threatens.

Mandarin Measurements

• Length — 16-19 inches
• Wingspan — 25-30 inches
• Weight — 1-1.5 pounds

Mandarin Habitat

The natural habitat of Mandarin ducks consists of wooded areas surrounding shallow lakes, ponds, and rivers, with mature trees for roosting and nesting. In captivity they need a fully enclosed aviary to keep them from flying away and protect them from predators, such as raccoons and owls.

The aviary should be spacious enough to avoid overcrowding and to allow short flights. In should include abundant environmental enrichment in the form of perching branches and elevated nest boxes to promote natural behavior, along with ready access to clean and well filtered water.

Typical Diet

Mandarin ducks are omnivorous, with a slight preference toward plant matter. In the wild they consume primarily aquatic plants, grains, seeds, weeds, fruits, berries, and other forms of plant life. They also enjoy occasional invertebrates including insects, frogs, snails, small fish, and crustaceans.

In captivity, Mandarin ducks should be fed waterfowl pellets, mixed vegetables, fruits, and live insects. Treats might include oats, bean sprouts, and mealworms. Ducklings should be fed a starter crumble containing 20% to 22% protein.

Breeding

Mandarin ducks typically mate for life. They are, in fact, an Asian symbol of love and fidelity. The females typically nest high in tree cavities, but will use nest boxes when supplied with suitable nesting material.

The female will lay 8 to 12 eggs before incubating them for 28 to 30 days. After the hatch, the female will jump down to the ground or water’s surface. The ducklings follow, even from as high as 30 feet up, bouncing on the ground without injury. They are able to fly by the time they are 40 to 50 days old.

Well cared for, they can live for 10 years or more. Mandarin ducks make a fun and spectacular addition to the backyard aviary.

Please note: We cannot ship grown fowl to Minnesota.