The Mandarin duck is a medium-sized perching duck and is probably one of the most striking and decorative ducks along with its close relative, the American Wood Duck. The name 'Mandarin' was given to this duck because of its brilliantly decorative plumage which resembled the colourful Chinese Mandarin dress. They nest in tree cavities and although the male leaves the female to incubate the eggs he returns to help look after the ducklings.
