1. Mandarin Duck (Aix galericulata):
- Origin: East Asia, primarily China, Japan, and Russia
- Size: Relatively small, around 41-48 cm (16-19 in) in length
- Appearance: Vibrantly colored, with males exhibiting a distinctive chestnut head and neck, white and black facial markings, and iridescent green, orange, and purple feathers on the wings and tail. Females have a more subdued coloration, primarily brown and grey.
- Habitat: Prefers calm bodies of water, such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers, often found in wooded areas.
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant matter, insects, small fish, and crustaceans.
- Conservation Status: Least Concern according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
2. Mallard Duck (Anas platyrhynchos):
- Origin: North America, Europe, Asia, and North Africa, but has also been introduced to other regions globally.
- Size: One of the largest species of dabbling ducks, measuring around 50-65 cm (20-26 in) in length.
- Appearance: Well-known for its distinctive green head and neck, white neck ring, brown breast, and grey wings. Females are mottled brown with a dark brown head and lack the iridescent coloring of males.
- Habitat: Highly adaptable, found in various freshwater wetlands, including ponds, lakes, rivers, marshes, and even urban environments.
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on a wide range of plant material, seeds, insects, small fish, and invertebrates.
- Conservation Status: Least Concern according to the IUCN, although some local populations may face threats.
3. Eider Duck (Somateria spp.):
- Origin: Arctic and subarctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia.
- Size: Varies depending on the species, but typically ranges between 50-75 cm (20-30 in) in length.
- Appearance: Both male and female eiders have a distinctive wedge-shaped bill. The males are typically larger and more colorful, with varying plumage depending on the species. For instance, Common Eiders (Somateria mollissima) males have a black and white head, while King Eiders (Somateria spectabilis) males have a white head and a black neck. Females are generally brown with a darker brown head.
- Habitat: Associated with coastal environments, including sheltered bays, estuaries, inlets, and offshore waters. They rely on marine resources and often gather in large flocks during breeding and winter.
- Diet: Primarily feed on marine invertebrates, such as mussels, clams, barnacles, and sea urchins. They dive underwater to obtain their prey.
- Conservation Status: Species of eiders vary in conservation status, ranging from Least Concern to Near Threatened or Vulnerable, depending on the specific species and local populations.
These duck species exhibit unique characteristics and play important ecological roles in their respective habitats. They are important components of wetland ecosystems and hold cultural significance in many regions.