Mandarin ducks of the River Leven
Today we went in search of a colourful resident of the River Leven.The Leven flows into Loch Lomond at the town of Balloch.
We started by searching the riverside and then along the pathway in Balloch Castle country park.
No joy. As we were heading to Lomond shore we decided to have another look. We saw a lot of activity along a bit from the marina. Finally we saw these
stunning colourful birds.
Today we went in search of a colourful resident of the River Leven.The Leven flows into Loch Lomond at the town of Balloch.
We started by searching the riverside and then along the pathway in Balloch Castle country park.
No joy. As we were heading to Lomond shore we decided to have another look. We saw a lot of activity along a bit from the marina. Finally we saw these
stunning colourful birds.
You must have guessed Mandarin ducks came from China.
They were imported to animal sanctuaries and as ornamental birds in large gardens in southern England. Some escaped and made home in the south.
Through time some have made it to the north.
They were imported to animal sanctuaries and as ornamental birds in large gardens in southern England. Some escaped and made home in the south.
Through time some have made it to the north.
Mandarin ducks are symbols of love in China. They are peaceful birds who stay a couple to the end of their time. These colourful ducks are males. The female has grey feathers.
