This morning residents observed two Mandarin Ducks. The Ducks were spotted last year on the City Quay lake but no one captured the picture.

We stood and watch the majestic creatures with its dazzling plumage, gorgeous and striking beak. It’s beak sets them apart from your average mallard and inspired its nickname ,”hot duck”.

The Mandarin duck is known to be one of the most beautiful ducks in the world. It is one of the few living creatures who don’t cause any environmental problems. In China and Korea, they symbolize faithfulness because they are monogamous birds, meaning they mate for life. That is why every bride receives a pair on her wedding day. The ducks have been spotted on our lake for the last couple of mornings: it makes you feel like a child again just looking.

The Mandarin Ducks were spotted in Sefton Park in January and originates over 4,500 miles away in China.

I hope everyone in their lifetime gets to see a Mandarin Duck – such an uplifting sight. Just remember one thing: if someone offers you a Mandarin Duck dish, don’t eat it, because it’s great to look at, but not to eat!

Article by Audrey McCurley
Pictures captured by James Roche.