Assam: Mandarin Duck Makes Rare Appearance Near Manas National Park

BAKSA: A rare Mandarin duck with vivid, colourful feathers was sighted in the reserved forest area close to Manas National Park and Tiger Reserve in Assam's Baksa district.

The Manas Maozigendri Eco-Tourism Society (MMES) researchers Edison Basumatary and Tomal Gogoi verified the sighting, which occurred on December 18 at 3:20 PM. Conservationists and birdwatchers are excited since this is the first time the Mandarin duck has been seen in Lower Assam.

China, Japan, Korea, and portions of Russia are among the forested eastern Asian countries where the Mandarin duck is native. It is renowned for having a distinctive and eye-catching look.

The male duck's features include reddish facial "whiskers," orange feathers that mimic boat sails, a white crescent above its eye, and a red bill. The female has a more muted greyish tone with a white eye-ring and a light underbelly, while the male's chest is rich purple with white bars.

These birds usually travel to warmer areas, such as southern China and Japan, during the winter after breeding in eastern Siberia, Japan, and China.

The fact that the Mandarin duck may be found in Manas indicates that the region is becoming a popular migratory bird destination and emphasises its increasing importance for avian biodiversity.

This discovery has been welcomed by conservationists as a significant milestone for Assamese wildlife research and preservation. In addition to enhancing the biodiversity of the area, the sighting of this rare duck highlights the importance of preserving the ecosystems which nurture such unique species.

Interest in additional research and initiatives to protect the area's abundant wildlife has increased as a result of the discovery.

ALSO READ:

ALSO WATCH: