How To Identify Winter Ducks

This is a recording of a webinar for RSPB supporters which took place on Tuesday 14 November 2023.

In winter, ducks look their best, resplendent in their breeding colours. Resident ducks are also joined by flocks of others who arrive to spend the colder months here. So now is a great time to get to know this group of waterbirds.

Ducks have a range of diets and behaviours, and can be seen in a variety of watery habitats. Some like a shallow pond, others prefer deep water to dive in, and there are several that just like being out on the sea.

Whether you want to dabble, or dive in, we have plenty to tips to help you get quacking in this recording of our winter ducks ID webinar.

02:04 - Pond: Mallard, Tufted Duck, Shoveler, Gadwall, Mandarin
23:42 - Lake: Pintail, Teal, Wigeon, Pochard, Red-crested Pochard, Goldeneye, Smew, Goosander, Red-breasted Merganser, Shelduck, hybrid ducks
51:30 - Sea: Eider, Common Scoter, Velvet Scoter, Long-tailed Duck

Image: female Goosander - Ben Andrew (rspb-images.com)