The male Painted Duck has lovely distinct colours, with a teal head cap and white feather crescents accentuating the eye area. Prized for its beauty, the Painted Duck symbolizes fidelity, affection, and many offspring, in Korea. The Painted Duck is thought to mate for life, unlike other duck species.

The Painted Duck is shy and will shelter under trees such as the willow tree. Food for the Painted Duck changes with the seasons; in fall and winter, acorns and grains; in spring and summer, worms, fish, mollusks, and aquatic plants.