Ducks, Geese & Swans in South Yorkshire
28 species matching this filter.
South Yorkshire's diverse wetlands, reservoirs and river corridors provide excellent habitat for 28 species of ducks, geese and swans. From the striking Barnacle Goose and Greater White-fronted Goose visiting in winter to resident breeders such as the Common Shelduck and Gadwall, the county offers rewarding wildfowl watching throughout the year. Notable sites including the Dearne Valley wetlands and Rother Valley Country Park attract a wide variety of species, with occasional surprises such as Black Swan and Egyptian Goose adding to the diversity.
Showing 24–28 of 28 species
Ruddy Duck
Oxyura jamaicensisLC
A rare resident, now scarce following national culling programmes. Occasionally recorded on reservoirs and lakes in the region.
Feb–Nov
Smew
Mergellus albellusLC
A rare and prized winter visitor, occasionally recorded in February on reservoirs and larger waterbodies during cold spells.
Feb
Tufted Duck
Aythya fuligulaLC
A common resident breeding on lakes and reservoirs throughout the region. Numbers increase in winter with continental arrivals.
Year-round
Tundra Swan
Cygnus columbianusLC
A rare winter passage visitor, occasionally seen on larger reservoirs and flooded fields during harsh cold spells in January and February.
Jan–Feb
Whooper Swan
Cygnus cygnusLC
An uncommon winter visitor arriving from Iceland, found on flooded fields and larger water bodies. Its bugling calls distinguish it from the resident Mute Swan.
Sep–Apr