Yesterday I saw a pair of exotic-looking birds in Bilbao, on the north coast of the Iberian peninsula, and haven't been able to identify them. I couldn't find them in any European bird guides and I don't remember seeing them in any other books or on the internet, although I have to admit to being a novice. They look pretty exotic so I presume they're either way off course or have escaped from a zoo / private collection. Here's the link to a few photos I managed to take:
http://picasaweb.google.es/cluaran/AveDesconocida
If it's any help, they were about 15km inland on the tidal limit of the Nervion river which runs through Bilbao and in an urban setting, next to a reasonably sized public park. I watched them for a good while but didn't see them fly or even extend their wings. They were among a small group of Mallards and Black-faced gulls.
Cheers
Mandarin ducks? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandarin_Duck
Welcome to the forum btw!!
"All weeds are flowers, once you get to know them" (Eeyore)
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They are Mandarin ducks and you're right about them being introduced, they are originially from China.
Millie & Fly the Border Collies
Rockwolf said: Mandarin ducks? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandarin_Duck
Thanks for the speedy reply (and to KatTai too). What a beautiful bird and a treat to see it in a semi-natural setting even if it's not a native species.
Cheers!