Ducks, Geese & Swans in Merseyside
29 species matching this filter.
Merseyside's diverse wetland habitats, from the Dee and Mersey estuaries to the internationally important marshes at Martin Mere, make it an outstanding region for ducks, geese and swans. With 29 species recorded, birdwatchers can enjoy sightings ranging from wintering flocks of Eurasian Wigeon and Barnacle Geese to resident breeders such as Common Shelduck and Greylag Goose. Scarcer visitors like Long-tailed Duck and Greater White-fronted Goose add further excitement for those exploring the county's coastline and inland waters.
Showing 24–29 of 29 species
Pochard
Aythya ferinaVU
An uncommon year-round resident on Merseyside's lakes and meres. Numbers have declined nationally, making local sightings increasingly noteworthy.
Year-round
Red-breasted Merganser
Mergus serratorLC
An uncommon non-breeding visitor to the Mersey estuary and coastal waters from autumn through spring. Often seen fishing in sheltered bays and river channels.
Sep–Apr
Smew
Mergellus albellusLC
A rare midwinter passage visitor, very occasionally turning up on sheltered lakes and reservoirs across the region.
Dec–Mar
Snow Goose
Anser caerulescensLC
A rare passage visitor, occasionally seen among wintering goose flocks on the Mersey estuary and surrounding farmland in winter and spring.
Dec–Apr
Tufted Duck
Aythya fuligulaLC
A common diving duck found year-round on park lakes, reservoirs and meres across Merseyside. Males are striking with their dark crests and bright yellow eyes.
Year-round
Whooper Swan
Cygnus cygnusLC
A rare winter visitor from Iceland, sometimes seen on coastal marshes and fields from October to March.
Oct–Mar