(aix galericulata)
The Mandarin Duck originates from East Asia and is an introduced species in the UK. A feral breeding population has become established in various locations where it prefers lakes and rivers with overhanging and sheltering vegetation. In Scotland the total population is estimated at about 50 breeding pairs. The drake bird is a spectacularly handsome fellow.
In March 2014 a female duck was found to be frequenting the River Leven at Balloch and shortly later she was joined by a male bird. As can be seen by the photographs, they bred successfully producing a brood of six chicks.