Ducks, Geese & Swans in Kent
33 species matching this filter.
Kent's diverse wetland habitats, from the expansive marshes of the North Kent coast to the lakes and reservoirs inland, support an impressive 33 species of ducks, geese and swans. The county is a vital wintering ground for wildfowl such as Eurasian Wigeon, Gadwall and Goldeneye, while resident species like Common Shelduck and Greylag Goose can be observed year-round. Notable visitors include Barnacle Goose, Long-tailed Duck and the striking Egyptian Goose, which has become increasingly established across the region.
Showing 24–33 of 33 species
Pochard
Aythya ferinaVU
An uncommon year-round resident, found on deeper lakes and gravel pits. Numbers have declined nationally, making Kent sightings increasingly valued.
Year-round
Red-breasted Merganser
Mergus serratorLC
An uncommon winter visitor found along Kent's estuaries and sheltered coastal waters, arriving from October and departing by April.
Oct–Apr
Red-crested Pochard
Netta rufinaLC
A rare passage visitor, with occasional spring records. Most Kent sightings likely involve wanderers from small feral populations in southern England.
May
Ruddy Duck
Oxyura jamaicensisLC
A rare and declining non-native resident, subject to an eradication programme. Occasionally lingers on lakes and reservoirs.
Sep–May
Smew
Mergellus albellusLC
A rare and prized winter visitor, favouring Kent's inland lakes and flooded gravel pits. Cold-weather influxes from the Continent boost numbers.
Dec–Mar
Tufted Duck
Aythya fuligulaLC
A common year-round resident on Kent's lakes, reservoirs and gravel pits. Males are striking black and white with a distinctive drooping head tuft.
Year-round
Tundra Bean Goose
Anser serrirostrisLC
A rare midwinter visitor, occasionally found among other goose flocks on coastal marshes. Kent lies at the edge of this species' British wintering range.
Dec–Feb
Tundra Swan
Cygnus columbianusLC
A rare winter visitor, occasionally found on flooded grassland and marshes. Small numbers may appear in cold spells, mainly November to February.
Nov–Feb
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Velvet Scoter
Melanitta fuscaVU
A rare non-breeding visitor to Kent's offshore waters, mainly in late autumn and winter. Often associates with Common Scoter flocks.
Oct–Apr
Whooper Swan
Cygnus cygnusLC
A rare winter visitor to Kent, occasionally turning up on flooded fields and marshes in the coldest months. Far less frequent here than in northern England.
Dec–Feb