For the first time in several weeks, I venture back into the New Forest to seek out the new-born foals, but again I draw a blank. I'm told (again) that it's still too early for the mares to have given birth, although opinions seem to vary. So, off to the secondary target in the hope that I will catch a glimpse of the Mandarin ducks (Aix galericulata) that live on Eyeworth pond, near Fritham, Hampshire. Having made several visits since last October that proved fruitless, today I was treated to the unexpected bonanza of several pairs that not only came into range to be photographed, but decided this was the time to mate. The waterfowl is not high on the birdwatchers conservation list because of its alien origins, and many regard it as "plastic", but few can deny the stunning plumage that the male of the species possesses.
© 2008
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