Ducks, Geese & Swans in Dorset

Dorset's diverse wetland habitats, from the sheltered waters of Poole Harbour and the Fleet lagoon to the River Stour's water meadows, make it an outstanding county for ducks, geese and swans. With 29 species recorded, birdwatchers can enjoy sightings ranging from wintering flocks of Brent Goose and Eurasian Wigeon to resident Common Shelduck and introduced species such as Egyptian Goose and Black Swan. The county's coastal estuaries and freshwater lakes provide vital feeding and roosting grounds throughout the year.

Showing 24–29 of 29 species

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serratorLC

An uncommon winter visitor favouring sheltered coastal waters, regularly seen in Poole Harbour and around the Fleet lagoon.

Oct–Apr

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Ruddy Duck

Oxyura jamaicensisLC

A rare passage visitor, now virtually extinct in the UK following an eradication programme. Occasional August records persist.

Aug

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Tufted Duck

Aythya fuligulaLC

An uncommon resident breeding on lakes and reservoirs across the county. Winter flocks gather on larger water bodies with good diving habitat.

Year-round

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Tundra Bean Goose

Anser serrirostrisLC

A rare midwinter visitor in January and December, occasionally turning up on wet grassland and flooded fields among other wintering geese.

Dec–Jan

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Velvet Scoter

Melanitta fuscaVU

A rare non-breeding visitor to offshore waters from October to January. Best looked for from Portland Bill among Common Scoter flocks.

Oct–Jan

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Whooper Swan

Cygnus cygnusLC

A rare passage visitor recorded in March, occasionally stopping on flooded fields or lakes during northward spring migration.

Mar

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Frequently Asked Questions