Ducks, Geese & Swans in Hampshire
31 species matching this filter.
Hampshire's diverse wetland habitats, from the Solent coastline and its estuaries to inland lakes and river valleys, support an impressive variety of ducks, geese and swans. With 31 species recorded, the county attracts notable visitors such as the Greater White-fronted Goose and Eurasian Wigeon in winter, alongside established populations of Egyptian Goose and Common Shelduck. Reservoirs, flooded gravel pits and coastal marshes provide vital feeding and roosting grounds throughout the year.
Showing 24–31 of 31 species
Pochard
Aythya ferinaVU
Present year-round on lakes and reservoirs but declining nationally. Winter numbers are supplemented by continental birds at sites like Blashford Lakes.
Year-round
Red-breasted Goose
Branta ruficollisVU
An exceptionally rare passage visitor, recorded in February. One of the world's rarest geese, any sighting is noteworthy.
Feb
Red-breasted Merganser
Mergus serratorLC
A non-breeding visitor to Hampshire's harbours and estuaries from autumn through spring. Favours the sheltered waters of Langstone and Chichester Harbours.
Oct–Apr
Red-crested Pochard
Netta rufinaLC
A rare passage visitor in late autumn, occasionally appearing on Hampshire's lakes and reservoirs. The striking male is unmistakable.
Nov–Dec
Ruddy Duck
Oxyura jamaicensisLC
A rare passage visitor, now extremely scarce following the national eradication programme. Occasionally recorded in November.
Nov
Tufted Duck
Aythya fuligulaLC
Frequents freshwater lakes and gravel pits across Hampshire year-round, with notable gatherings at sites like Blashford Lakes and Alresford Pond.
Year-round
Tundra Bean Goose
Anser serrirostrisLC
A rare passage visitor, occasionally recorded in January. May turn up among flocks of other wintering geese on wetlands.
Jan
Velvet Scoter
Melanitta fuscaVU
A rare non-breeding visitor to Hampshire's coastal waters, occasionally seen off the Solent from November to January.
Nov–Jan