Let me know when that tide's coming in won't you

Let me know when that tide's coming in won't you

Monday 27 April 2015

Mandarin Duck

The area between Cheadle Hulme and Bramhall is a great little habitat, and at this time of year there is usually quite a lot to see. There were plenty of Chiffchaffs calling, my first Blackcap of the year, Grey Wagtail on the river and Herons on their nests. Then I spotted a duck on the river that I was hoping I would see, having not seen one for a while. The really colourful Mandarin Duck. It's not a native species and was introduced in the 20th century here, although the feral population seems to have established itself quite well. Not everyone's cup of tea, but I think its quite a nice duck to look at. A break from the norm.

A good looking male.

The less colourful female.





23 comments:

  1. That Mandarin drake is stunningly beautiful. We had a small flock in Albuquerque when we lived there, about 16 years ago, but they did not thrive and gradually all disappeared. No one was sure of their origin. They attempted to mate with Wood Ducks but I do not think any hybrids ever appeared.

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  2. omgoodness, these are just stunning!! not fair though, the boys get all the pretty colors!!!

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  3. Great photos. Amazing color on the male duck - it almost looks as if it is painted on!

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  4. These duck is a beauty! Amazing colors!

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  5. Hello, gorgeous shots of the pretty Mandarin Duck! Have a great week!

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  6. What a beauty..Love the colors..Have a nice week..

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  7. He's very handsome, but she's pretty too.

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  8. That's such a lovely duck - beautiful colors and contrasts, great photos!
    Thank you for sharing at http://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2015/04/french-corner-bakery.html

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  9. What a handsome duck. Birds really are a miracle of nature.

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  10. Beauties. Definitely an introduction that I enjoy seeing breeding on my local patch most years.

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  11. They may not be a native but I always enjoy finding a Mandarin. Great shots.

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  12. Great captures. They are just beautiful!

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  13. One word today Adam....WOW!!!!!!!!

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  14. They are a cracking looking duck - lets hope they don't end up in trouble like the Ruddy Duck.

    Almost as distinctive as my pelicans, but in a different way.

    Cheers - Stewart M - Melbourne

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  15. Beautiful ducks, I went to a few places to see a feral Maderin but never did find one.

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  16. Wonderful Mandarin Ducks.

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  17. Oh, it 's so beautiful, Mandarin duck. Maybe he's on tour ;) ;). I have also photographed it here in Västerås , Sweden .

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  18. Mandarin ducks are so gorgeous! I look look at them for ages and ages and ages. #aNoviceMumCommentLuv

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