The mandarin duck (Aix galericulata) was first brought to the Britain from China in the mid-eighteenth century as an ornamental addition to private lakes and ponds. Whether it became more widely distributed by further releases or by escaping from private collections isn't known. However, it fairly quickly found its way to woodland ponds and is now a naturalised species. Of all Britain's introduced birds the drake is widely regarded as the most colourful, with the only challenger being the cock pheasant. I've usually only seen them as singles or couples. However, the Cannop Ponds in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, where I found this pair, supports a population of over 200 birds.
photo © T. Boughen Camera: Nikon P900
