Mandarin Drake question

[pntdhorses]

I’m pretty sure that I have a Mandarin Drake from some eggs I hatched in May. Unfortunately he was the only one to survive out of 3 that hatched. His bill is pink and he’s got the stripes on his sides like a male. Also I can see some orange whisps starting on his head.

My question is that it seems like it is taking forever for his colors to come in. How long does it take before the drakes are fully ornamental?

 

[PirateGirl]

I have not had a Mandarin before, but generally juveniles do not have their adult drake plumage and males and females look much the same for awhile. Then they will go through a molt, and by their first spring/breeding season drakes will have their full colors.