A drake Mandarin Duck has been on the Stonebridge Pond for the last few days.

The Mandarin Duck is a native of Eastern Asia where it is found mainly in China and Japan. It was introduced to Britain in the 1800s, with later introduction of free flying individuals at the beginning of the twentieth century and is now established as a breeding species in the wild. It nests in tree holes or nest boxes in woodland next to rivers and lakes. It first bred in Kent in 1935 and there are now 100 – 150 pairs nesting in the county.

It is perhaps the most beautiful duck species in the world. I photographed it today near to the duck feeding area.