Ducks, Geese & Swans in Oxfordshire

Oxfordshire's rivers, reservoirs and flooded gravel pits provide outstanding habitat for ducks, geese and swans, with 28 species recorded across the county. The Thames and its tributaries, along with key sites such as Farmoor Reservoir and the Otmoor wetlands, attract a wonderful diversity of wildfowl throughout the year. Notable species range from resident Greylag Geese and Gadwall to winter visitors such as Eurasian Wigeon, Goldeneye and Greater White-fronted Goose, while more unusual sightings include Barnacle Goose and the striking Egyptian Goose.

Showing 24–28 of 28 species

Smew

Mergellus albellusLC

A rare and prized winter visitor, occasionally appearing on reservoirs and gravel pits during cold spells in February.

Feb

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescensLC

Rarely recorded, with sightings likely involving feral or escaped birds. Occasionally joins flocks of wild geese on farmland and floodplains.

Aug–May

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Tufted Duck

Aythya fuligulaLC

A common diving duck found year-round on gravel pits, reservoirs and park lakes. Breeds readily across the county.

Year-round

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Tundra Bean Goose

Anser serrirostrisLC

A rare winter visitor, occasionally turning up on flooded fields and reservoirs in the Thames Valley during January and December.

Dec–Jan

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Velvet Scoter

Melanitta fuscaVU

A rare passage visitor, very occasionally recorded on larger water bodies in November. A notable inland record for the county.

Nov

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Frequently Asked Questions