Range expansion of the Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata (Aves: Anseriformes: Anatidae) to the Lena River catchment, Siberia

Abstract

Recently the Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata was observed beyond its known range of 60°N as pairs, individuals and small flocks along the upper and middle reaches of the Aldan River and its tributaries from spring to late autumn. Pairs and solitary males (all probably vagrant) were also recorded as far North as 61°-63°N. This species encounters appropriate habitats within the Prilenskoe Plateau, the Aldanskoe High Plateau, and the Yudomo-Mayiskoe High Plateau in the Lena River catchment, and can potentially breed within the extended range if the number in the Amur River basin increases.

Keywords

• Aix galericulata, breeding range, extent of occurrence, Lena River, Mandarin Duck, vagrancy.