Ducks, Geese & Swans in Tyne and Wear
29 species matching this filter.
Tyne and Wear's diverse wetland habitats, from the estuarine mudflats of the River Tyne and River Wear to coastal waters and inland reservoirs, support an impressive 29 species of ducks, geese and swans. The region is particularly rewarding for birdwatchers during the winter months, when migratory species such as Brent Goose, Barnacle Goose, Eurasian Wigeon and Long-tailed Duck arrive to take advantage of sheltered coastal and estuarine feeding grounds. Notable residents and visitors also include Common Shelduck, Goldeneye and Common Merganser, which can be spotted along the region's rivers and wetlands throughout the colder months.
Showing 24–29 of 29 species
Red-breasted Merganser
Mergus serratorLC
A rare but regular sight along the coast and river mouths. Present most of the year, often seen fishing in the lower Tyne.
Sep–Jul
Ruddy Duck
Oxyura jamaicensisLC
A rare breeding visitor, now largely eradicated by national control programmes. Any sightings are increasingly exceptional.
Apr–Jun
Tufted Duck
Aythya fuligulaLC
A common resident on lakes and reservoirs across the region. Breeds locally and numbers increase in winter with continental arrivals.
Year-round
Tundra Bean Goose
Anser serrirostrisLC
A rare passage visitor, only occasionally recorded. Any sightings should be checked carefully among flocks of Pink-footed Geese.
Feb
Velvet Scoter
Melanitta fuscaVU
A rare sea duck seen offshore, most often in winter. Small numbers linger along the coast, sometimes mixing with Common Scoter flocks.
Jun–Mar
Whooper Swan
Cygnus cygnusLC
A rare winter visitor, occasionally seen on wetlands and estuaries from October to April, with bugling calls distinguishing it from Mute Swan.
Oct–Apr