Ducks, Geese & Swans in Leicestershire
28 species matching this filter.
Leicestershire's reservoirs, gravel pits and river valleys provide excellent habitat for 28 species of ducks, geese and swans. From resident Greylag Geese and Gadwall to winter visitors such as Eurasian Wigeon, Goldeneye and the occasional Long-tailed Duck, the county's wetlands offer rewarding wildfowl watching throughout the year. Notable sites include Rutland Water's fringes, Eyebrook Reservoir and the Soar Valley gravel pits, which attract both common breeders and scarcer passage species like Barnacle Goose and Greater White-fronted Goose.
Showing 24–28 of 28 species
Ruddy Duck
Oxyura jamaicensisLC
A rare resident, now greatly reduced following national culling programmes. Occasionally seen on larger waterbodies.
Oct–Jun
Smew
Mergellus albellusLC
A rare but prized winter visitor to reservoirs and gravel pits, most likely in cold spells from November to February.
Nov–Feb
Tufted Duck
Aythya fuligulaLC
A common diving duck present year-round on reservoirs and gravel pits, often nesting near waterside vegetation.
Year-round
Velvet Scoter
Melanitta fuscaVU
A rare passage visitor, very occasionally recorded on larger reservoirs in midwinter. An unusual inland record for this primarily coastal sea duck.
Dec–Jan
Whooper Swan
Cygnus cygnusLC
A rare passage visitor, occasionally seen on larger reservoirs in autumn and winter. Listen for its bugling call.
Oct–Jan