Between 24th September and 24th November 2023 a male Mandarin Duck
Aix galericulata was found associating with a flock of Mallard near Mulvika, Holmestrand in Vestfold. On the first observation date it was claimed that two individuals were present but this has not been confirmed on subsequent dates. At the beginning of this period the duck moved around a fare bit and was even found on the nearby Snekkestaddammen on one occasion. The species has become increasing frequent in Norway possibly due to increased escapes from feral populations further south in Europe and probably also the UK. We paid several visits to photograph this beautiful duck during 7th - 24th November when it had become rather stable at Hageman between Mulvika and Holmestrand.
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| Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata male - Holmestrand, Vestfold, Norway 24/11-23 |
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| Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata male - Holmestrand, Vestfold, Norway 24/11-23 |
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| Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata male - Holmestrand, Vestfold, Norway 24/11-23 |
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| Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata male - Holmestrand, Vestfold, Norway 21/11-23 |
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Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata male - Holmestrand, Vestfold, Norway 20/11-23
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| Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata male - Holmestrand, Vestfold, Norway 24/11-23 |
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Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata male with Mallards - Holmestrand, Vestfold, Norway 7/11-23
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