The birds

Find out what waterbirds we see locally
Introduction

So, which birds are waterfowl?

Waterfowl, a varied group of birds, gracefully adorn our ponds, lakes, and waterways. These adept aquatic residents are distinguished by their webbed feet for propulsion and dense, water-resistant feathers for warmth and dryness. From ducks with their dabbling and diving feeding techniques to geese observed grazing in fields or soaring in majestic formations, waterfowl embody a fascinating facet of our natural world. The largest members of the waterfowl family, swans, glide effortlessly across the water’s surface, capturing our attention with their elegance and grace.

What types of waterfowl have I likely seen in the area?

London and the southeast of England boast a rich array of waterfowl, with several species commonly observed in parks, waterways, and coastal regions. Mallards, with their iridescent green heads and chestnut chests, are among the most familiar ducks, while their smaller relatives, such as teals and gadwalls, can also be spotted. Coots, with their black plumage and white bills, are frequently observed diving for food in ponds and canals. Shelducks, with their distinctive orange beaks and black and white markings, are frequently spotted along the coast and in estuaries. Geese, including Canada geese and greylag geese, are also common visitors to parks and fields, frequently observed grazing or resting in large groups. Mute swans, with their elegant white plumage and black bills, adorn the waterways of London and the southeast, while their smaller relatives, Bewick's swans, can be seen in some coastal regions.
Ducks (such as the Mallard duck)
Ducks 40%
Geese (such as the Canada goose)
Geese 30%
Swans (such as the Mute swan)
Geese 20%
Others (such as coots)
Geese 10%

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