The Mandarin Duck (Aix galericulata),
is a colourful Asian duck, not native to the UK, but escapees from
collections have now established in the UK, predominately in the South
East. They are often seen in some of the parks in and around London.
The male is a very striking, colourful bird, with long orange "beard"
and sails. Much more so than the much duller female, characterised by
it's grey head and white stripe behind the eye.
The species is now classed as endangered in it's native Asia, but not
protected in the UK as it is not a native species. The Mandarin is a
potent symbol often seen in traditional Chinese culture.