Ducks, Geese & Swans in Rutland
34 species matching this filter.
Rutland, England's smallest county, punches well above its weight when it comes to wildfowl diversity, with 32 species of ducks, geese and swans recorded in the area. Rutland Water, one of the largest artificial lakes in Europe, serves as a nationally important reservoir and nature reserve that attracts vast numbers of wintering and breeding wildfowl. Notable species include Mandarin Duck, Goldeneye, and Barnacle Goose, alongside less common visitors such as Black Swan and Egyptian Goose.
Showing 24–34 of 34 species
Red-breasted Merganser
Mergus serratorLC
A rare non-breeding visitor to Rutland Water from autumn through spring. This slim, serrated-billed diver favours open water.
Oct–Apr
Red-crested Pochard
Netta rufinaLC
An uncommon but increasing resident, breeding at Rutland Water. The male's striking orange head makes it easy to pick out among other diving ducks.
Year-round
Ruddy Duck
Oxyura jamaicensisLC
An uncommon resident, now much reduced following national eradication efforts. Occasionally still seen on Rutland Water.
Year-round
Ruddy Shelduck
Tadorna ferrugineaLC
A rare visitor recorded mainly in summer and autumn, most likely involving feral or escaped birds rather than genuine wild vagrants.
Jun–Nov
Smew
Mergellus albellusLC
A winter highlight at Rutland Water, commonly seen from November to April. The striking 'white nun' males are much admired.
Nov–Apr
Snow Goose
Anser caerulescensLC
A very rare visitor with occasional May records; sightings may involve feral or escaped birds rather than genuine wild vagrants from North America.
May
Surf Scoter
Melanitta perspicillataLC
A rare passage visitor in December. This striking North American sea duck is a prized find on Rutland Water.
Dec
Tufted Duck
Aythya fuligulaLC
A common resident breeding on Rutland Water and smaller pools. Large winter flocks gather on the reservoir's open water.
Year-round
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Tundra Swan
Cygnus columbianusLC
A rare winter visitor, with small numbers occasionally appearing at Rutland Water between October and February alongside other wildfowl.
Oct–Feb
Velvet Scoter
Melanitta fuscaVU
A rare passage visitor, occasionally turning up on Rutland Water in December. A striking sea duck rarely seen inland.
Dec
Whooper Swan
Cygnus cygnusLC
A rare but regular winter visitor to Rutland Water, sometimes lingering into spring. Listen for its bugling calls across the reservoir.
Sep–May