Ducks, Geese & Swans in West Yorkshire

West Yorkshire's diverse waterways, reservoirs and wetlands support an impressive variety of ducks, geese and swans, with 27 species recorded across the county. From the upland reservoirs of the Pennine fringe to lowland lakes and river valleys, birders can encounter everything from common residents like Greylag Goose and Gadwall to scarcer visitors such as Long-tailed Duck and Goldeneye. Notable species including Barnacle Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose and Egyptian Goose add further interest throughout the year.

Showing 24–28 of 28 species

Ruddy Duck

Oxyura jamaicensisLC

Now extremely rare following the national eradication programme. Occasional sightings still occur on lowland lakes and reservoirs in the region.

Sep–May

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Ruddy Shelduck

Tadorna ferrugineaLC

A rare midsummer vagrant, with occasional July records likely involving escaped or wandering birds from continental Europe.

Jul

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Smew

Mergellus albellusLC

A rare midwinter visitor, occasionally appearing on reservoirs and lakes in January and February, often driven west by severe continental weather.

Jan–Feb

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Tufted Duck

Aythya fuligulaLC

A common year-round resident on reservoirs, lakes and park ponds across the region. Males are striking black and white with a distinctive drooping head crest.

Year-round

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Whooper Swan

Cygnus cygnusLC

A rare winter visitor from Iceland, occasionally seen on reservoirs and flooded fields between October and April.

Oct–Apr

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Frequently Asked Questions